Somalia’s First Lady Marwo Sahro participates in historic voter ID registration

Somalia’s First Lady Marwo Sahro Omar Hassan has officially registered as a voter in a landmark national exercise, marking a pivotal step in the country’s democratic journey toward universal suffrage.

The First Lady completed her registration in Dharkeenley District, located in the Banadir region, where she joined hundreds of citizens who turned out to take part in the historic voter registration drive.

The initiative is part of Somalia’s broader effort to transition from a clan-based, indirect electoral system to a one-person, one-vote model—an approach that promises to empower ordinary citizens by giving them a direct voice in the election of their leaders.

Speaking to the press after registering, Marwo Sahro expressed optimism about the success of the voter registration process and encouraged Somalis from all walks of life to actively participate.

“This is a national duty that goes beyond casting a vote,” she said. “Obtaining a voter card is a powerful symbol of citizenship. It is a chance for every Somali to express their voice, demonstrate their confidence in the future, and take part in shaping the destiny of our nation.”

She commended the efforts of government agencies, civil society, and the Somali people in advancing democratic reforms, especially the move toward direct elections.

The First Lady emphasized that the one-person, one-vote process is key to building a representative and accountable government rooted in the will of the people.

According to local media, the voter registration process is proceeding smoothly in several regions, including the federal member states of Galmudug, South West, Hirshabelle, and the Banadir region.

Citizens are turning out in large numbers, underscoring growing public confidence in the electoral process.

Somalia is preparing to hold its presidential and parliamentary elections in 2026—anticipated to be the first nationwide elections under the one-person, one-vote system.