ADDIS ABABA, Dec. 26 (Xinhua) -- African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on Friday congratulated the Somali people and government on the historic municipal elections held in the country's capital, Mogadishu.

In a statement, Youssouf praised the calm and orderly conduct of the process, saying that "the holding of these elections constitutes an important initial step in Somalia's ongoing efforts to advance democratic governance across the country."

Youssouf underscored that the municipal-level polls contribute to the strengthening of participatory governance and offer valuable experience as Somalia advances its nationally-led political and electoral trajectory.

He encouraged all Somali political stakeholders to continue engaging constructively through dialogue and inclusive consultation to support national unity and long-term stability.

The chairperson reaffirmed the 55-member continental bloc's continued engagement in accompanying the Somali people in their efforts to strengthen inclusive governance and advance lasting peace and stability.

According to official reports, more than 500,000 voters in Mogadishu cast ballots on Thursday in municipal elections widely seen as a key step toward the East African country's first direct national elections in more than five decades.

Somalia's National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission said some 1,604 candidates from 20 political parties are running for 390 posts in district councils in Mogadishu, in a vote viewed as crucial to dismantling the country's long-standing clan-based political system. ■