MOGADISHU (SD) – Somalia’s Southwest state has announced its first female senator to join the 11th Parliament of Somalia ahead of the country’s presidential election which is slated for 10 October.

According to the electoral commission, Ms. Zamzam Ibrahim Ali won first after defeating Ms. Sharifo Haji Osman, 81 to 4 votes in an early race on Monday morning. Seven votes were spoilt.

Ms. Ali also served last parliament. Voting for the remaining four seats in ongoing.

Southwest senate voting comes days after Jubbaland state elected its first four senators.

The elected senators include Mr Ilyas Bedel Gabbose, Mr. Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail Fartaag, Mr. Abirizak Mohamed Osman and Mr. Hassan Iman Iftin.

The only female candidate vying for senate assembly in Jubbland state failed to secure the post.

The Senators are normally chosen by elected representatives in the local legislatures of every state.

Jubbaland, Galmudug, South West and Hirshabelle state are allocated 8 seats in the Somalia Federal Upper House.

Puntland and Somaliland each has 11 seats for Somalia to have 54 seats in the Upper House.