The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) released an Election Observation and Media Monitoring Report following the Banadir Local Council Elections held on December 25, 2025. This marked Mogadishu’s first direct local elections since 1969, aiming to gauge Somalia’s readiness for broader democratic participation.
The report details an election with 1,604 candidates vying for 390 seats, secured by extensive security measures that resulted in a peaceful voting process, the first of its kind for many citizens. NUSOJ established a media monitoring unit to assess media coverage and information flow, emphasizing the importance of responsible journalism in a transitioning democracy.
Radio was identified as the most reliable information source (58% reach), followed by television (29%) and online media (13%). The report commended private media for their balanced coverage while critiquing state media for biased reporting favoring the ruling party. While media accreditation was generally successful, issues arose with non-journalists accessing polling sites.
Despite the peaceful electoral process, the report raised concerns over a deteriorating online information environment marked by misinformation and disinformation, particularly post-election. Politically charged narratives were found to deepen societal divisions.
NUSOJ’s observation noted that while most polling stations operated effectively, some media access restrictions did occur, which were eventually lifted. Secretary General Omar Faruk Osman emphasized the vital role of media freedom for credible elections while urging measures to counteract misleading information online.
Overall, NUSOJ concluded that the Banadir elections were a positive step for Somali democracy, underscoring the necessity for media professionalism and proactive measures against fake news and propaganda in future elections.
