By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
Somalia, 25 December 2025 President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, today cast his vote in the Banadir Region council elections, taking place in Mogadishu for the first time in over 50 years.
The President voted at the National Theatre polling station in the Warta-nabadda district.
After casting his vote, the President addressed the public and the media, stating that today marks a historic day for Somalia. He commended the Somali people of their resilience in overcoming past challenges.
"Today is another day when we turn a new page in our history, with Somalia on the path to peace, democracy, and self-determination," said President Mohamud.
More from Somalia
He emphasized the importance of opposition participation, stating that everything would be done to ensure the opposition is part of this new electoral process.
"We will do everything necessary to facilitate the opposition's return to the electoral process of one-person, one-vote. We have made concessions and are ready for dialogue," he said.
The President’s remarks come as Mogadishu today began its direct local elections, where residents will vote for their local councilors. However, opposition groups have criticized the election, with some stating that they do not recognize it.
