A political standoff unfolds in Beledweyne, in Somalia’s Hiiraan region, after Ma’awiisley fighters took control of several polling stations designated for the disputed electoral process.

The fighters were seen on Tuesday at facilities including Mujamac School, one of the main centers selected for voter registration.

Reports indicate that election-related activities were disrupted as the forces voiced opposition to the manner in which the Hirshabelle electoral process is being conducted.

The tensions are linked to the planned elections for Hirshabelle’s regional parliament and local councils. The disputed electoral commission has previously announced that the vote is scheduled to take place on September 30, 2026.

However, some residents and political figures in Hiiraan have raised concerns over the electoral process and the way it is being managed.

The Ma’awisley fighters who seized the registration sites said they would not allow an election that they believe lacks broad political consensus.

Attention is now focused on how the Federal Government, the Hirshabelle administration, and political stakeholders in Hiiraan will respond to the growing dispute.

Observers are also waiting to see whether voter registration activities will resume in Beledweyne and whether a political solution can be reached to address the grievances surrounding the planned elections.