Somali electoral commission approves 35 political groups for Galmudug elections

Wednesday July 8, 2026

Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia’s Independent National Electoral and Boundaries Commission has approved 35 political organizations to participate in upcoming elections in Galmudug State, as part of the country’s planned transition to a one-person, one-vote electoral system.

According to the commission, the approved organizations will compete for local council seats and other levels of elections in Galmudug.

The announcement follows voter registration and polling station preparations that have been underway in Galmudug areas in recent months.

The commission said the process is part of efforts to expand direct elections in Somalia, which the federal government has described as a key step toward replacing the indirect electoral model.

The plan, however, remains the subject of political debate, with some political stakeholders opposing parts of the federal government’s electoral approach.

The electoral commission called on political organizations, candidates and the people of Galmudug to cooperate with election officials and comply with electoral laws and procedures to ensure a fair, peaceful and inclusive vote.

The approved organizations are Qaransoor, Waaberi, Barwaaqo, Qaran, Justice and Unity Tiir, Madalsan, National Democratic Alliance, Somali Citizens, Somali Democrats, New Generation, Justice and Unity, Somali People, Peace and Justice, Unity of the Somali Community, Iftiin Qaran, Karaama, SAAB, Qiimo Qaran, Dan-shacab, Justice and Safety of the Goal, Sincad, Hogaan Qaran, Unity of the People, Socod, Somali Good Governance, Haldoor, Horyaal Qaran, Talo Qaran Youth, Ramaas, Danguud, Hormar and Unity of the Nation, Reconciliation and Development of Towfiiq, Badbaado Bulsho, Moqaaqaqa Somali and Somali Workers.