Somalia’s Electoral Commission reopens registration for political associations.

Somalia’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the reopening of registration for political associations for a period of two weeks, starting on August 23, 2025, and closing on September 6, 2025.

Speaking at a press briefing, Mohamed Amin Hassan Abdullahi, Chair of the Commission’s Operations Sub-Committee and acting Chairperson of INEC, said the decision is aimed at giving political associations that missed out on the earlier registration phase another chance to complete the process.

“The Commission has decided to reopen registration for political associations for two weeks, from August 23 to September 6, 2025. This is an important opportunity for associations whose applications were not completed during the previous phase to finalize their registration, and for Somali citizens to formally join political associations across the country,” Abdullahi stated.

Reports suggest that the decision came amid indications that some members who recently withdrew from the National Salvation Forum were preparing to establish a new political party.

This is not the first time the Commission has extended political registration timelines. Earlier this year, INEC granted an extension for both political associations and voter registration in Mogadishu. However, the voter registration process in the capital has since closed, and it remains unclear if it will be reopened.

The latest move underscores the dynamic and competitive nature of Somalia’s evolving multiparty political landscape, with several groups seeking to formalize their participation ahead of the next electoral cycle.