Mogadishu — The Somali Police Force has announced comprehensive restrictions on vehicular and public movement across Mogadishu on Thursday, December 25, to ensure the safety and security of voters participating in the capital's long-awaited local council elections.
The directive follows a high-level security meeting convened by Somali Police Commissioner Brigadier General Asad Osman Abdullahi (Diyaano), who brought together heads of directorates, division commanders, and leaders of special police units to finalise election-day security plans.
During the briefing, General Asad instructed senior officers to implement strict security measures while ensuring the public is treated with dignity and facilitated in reaching polling centres.
The primary goal, he said, is to create a secure environment where voters can cast their ballots without fear of disruption. Forces were ordered to remain on high alert throughout the day and proactively prevent any incidents that could compromise the integrity of the vote.
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Major Abdifatah Adan Hassan, spokesperson for the Somali Police Force, told reporters that provisions have been made for emergency services. Specific vehicles will be allowed to operate for medical emergencies and other critical needs during the restriction period, balancing strict security enforcement with essential public welfare.
Authorities are treating preparations for December 25 with the utmost seriousness. The elections mark a historic milestone, representing the first time in over fifty years that Mogadishu residents will vote directly for their local leadership.
The Somali Police Force has mobilised fully to ensure the vote proceeds peacefully and securely, allowing citizens to participate in shaping the city's governance.
