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MINISTRY OF INTERIOR,

FEDERAL AFFAIRS

AND RECONCILIATION

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Federal Government Elections

History, framework, and the path to universal suffrage

Overview

Somalia held its first national election in 1956 during the Trust Territory period. After decades of conflict, indirect elections returned in 2000. The Provisional Constitution (2012) established the federal framework. NIEBC is now conducting nationwide voter registration ahead of direct elections.

Electoral timeline

1956–1969: Early democratic elections and civilian governments
1969–1991: Military rule; elections suspended
2000–2012: Transitional indirect elections and reconciliation conferences
2012: Provisional Federal Constitution adopted
2016–2022: Indirect presidential and parliamentary elections
2025–present: NIEBC voter registration campaign — One Person One Vote

How federal elections work

Voter registration

Citizens register at NIEBC centres across federal member states and Banaadir.

More information →

NIEBC (GMDQS)

Independent commission responsible for elections, boundaries, and voter lists.

More information →

One Person One Vote

Transition from clan delegates to direct universal suffrage for all citizens.

Legal framework

Electoral laws, provisional constitution, and parliamentary oversight.

Political parties

Registered parties participate under NIEBC regulations and transparency rules.

International support

UN and partners support credible, inclusive electoral processes.

Visit NIEBC official website

Elections in Somalia have evolved from clan-based indirect selection toward a one person, one vote model. The National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC) leads voter registration and electoral administration nationwide.