The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, on Friday congratulated the people and government of Somalia following the successful conduct of municipal elections in the capital, Mogadishu.

In an official statement, Youssouf welcomed the calm and orderly manner in which the polls were conducted, describing the elections as a significant initial step in Somalia’s ongoing efforts to deepen democratic governance. He noted that the municipal vote represents an important milestone in the country’s broader political transition.

“The holding of these elections constitutes an important initial step in Somalia’s ongoing efforts to advance democratic governance across the country,” Youssouf said, highlighting the importance of grassroots participation in rebuilding democratic institutions.

The African Union Commission chairperson further underscored the role of municipal-level elections in strengthening participatory governance, arguing that local polls provide critical institutional experience as Somalia progresses toward a nationally led political and electoral framework. He added that such processes help lay the groundwork for broader electoral reforms by familiarising both institutions and citizens with democratic practices.

Youssouf also urged Somali political stakeholders to continue engaging constructively through dialogue and inclusive consultation, stressing that cooperation remains essential to national unity and long-term stability. He reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s governance and peacebuilding efforts, noting that the continental body remains actively engaged in accompanying the Somali people throughout their political transition.

According to official reports, more than 500,000 voters in Mogadishu cast their ballots on Thursday in elections widely regarded as a key step toward Somalia’s first direct national elections in more than five decades. The vote is seen as a critical move away from the country’s long-standing clan-based political system.

Somalia’s National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission reported that approximately 1,604 candidates from 20 political parties contested 390 district council seats across Mogadishu. Observers have described the scale of participation as an encouraging signal of growing public confidence in formal electoral processes.

The municipal elections mark a notable development in Somalia’s post-conflict political trajectory, reflecting incremental but tangible progress toward inclusive governance and institutional consolidation. | NNA TV+/Xinhwa