Somalia deploys security forces in Mogadishu ahead of disputed local election

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s federal government on Wednesday stepped up security across the capital, deploying police and other security forces along major roads and key sites ahead of a disputed local council election scheduled for Thursday in the Banadir region.

Security personnel were stationed along routes linking government facilities and around polling locations, as authorities said the measures were aimed at ensuring public safety and the smooth conduct of the vote.

Security officials said the deployment was part of a broader plan to prevent any incidents that could disrupt the election, as final preparations were underway across Mogadishu’s districts.

The move followed a security meeting held late Tuesday between senior police commanders and election officials, which focused on coordinating protection for polling sites and strengthening rapid response arrangements.

The Banadir local council election is scheduled to take place on June 25. It will be conducted under an indirect system, with voters selecting among political parties and organisations rather than individual candidates.

To tighten security further, the government has announced temporary restrictions on traffic along some of Mogadishu’s main roads on election day, as well as a brief suspension of flights to and from Aden Adde International Airport, officials said.

GAROWE ONLINE