Somalia's senior leaders, officials, and independent observers have hailed the country's local elections as a historic milestone that marks a new era of democracy.

After casting his vote at a polling station in Mogadishu's Warta Nabadda district, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud called the day a turning point in the nation's history.

"Today we are witnessing a historic vote that transforms Somalia," he said, adding that: "A long-closed page of our history is being turned… a new Somalia begins."

President Hassan Sheikh further emphasised that the country had "opened a new book" and embarked on "the path of a peaceful, democratic country that chooses its own leadership."

'Writing history'

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre described the elections as a long-awaited achievement, saying: "Today, our country and our people are writing history in a peaceful, orderly, and dignified manner."

He noted that Somalis had waited nearly 60 years to vote freely, calling the process "an honour, dignity, and a major step forward."

Senior officials also participated in the vote. Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama said the elections were "writing a new historic page," restoring the citizens' rights to directly choose their leaders and reflecting Somalia's democratic progress.

Independent observers reported a smooth start to polling. Omar Faruk Osman, Secretary General of the National Union of Somali Journalists, told TRT Afrika that voting began on time and was encouraging. "So far, the process has been encouraging, with full access granted to the media," he said, adding that the atmosphere was "calm, orderly, and inclusive."

Together, the statements from leaders and observers underscore the elections' significance as a symbol of renewal and hope, reflecting Somalia's determination to move forward as a democratic nation guided by the will of its people.