Residents of parts of the Galmudug and Hirshabelle regions are heading to polling stations this Wednesday to elect members of the regional parliaments and local councils for the districts within these two administrations.
The Galmudug electionโa repeat voteโis taking place across 11 towns and their surrounding areas in the Galgaduud and Mudug regions, with candidates representing 12 political organizations vying for seats.
Similarly, the Hirshabelle election is being held in 12 towns across the Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions, featuring candidates from 14 political organizations.
Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan, Chairman of the National Electoral Commission, who is currently in the city of Dhusamareb, called upon the political organizations to adhere to electoral laws.
“We hope that a fair and transparent election will take place in Galmudug and Hirshabelle, and we want it to proceed peacefully, God willing,” said Abdikarin Ahmed.
Abdikarin Ahmed also urged those who had previously registered and obtained voter cards to turn out for the election and cast their votes freely. “I call upon all registered voters holding a voter card to turn out in an orderly manner at the polling stations, cast their votes freely, and vote for the organization of their choice,” said Abdikarim Ahmed.
The elections in Galmudug and Hirshabelle are being overseen from the cities of Dhusamareb and Jowhar, as evidenced by the presence of the National Electoral Commission Chairperson and his deputy, Saadaq Abshir Garaad, in those respective cities.
The Justice and Unity Political Organization (JSP), led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, is expected to secure the majority of seats in the elections taking place within these regional administrations.
This organization is viewed as the most influential force in the local elections of Galmudug and Hirshabelle, leveraging the support of both Federal Government and Regional State leaders.
Many believe that the electoral contest in these regions hinges largely on the decisions made by the JSP.
