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Southwest state is the third oldest federal member state, only preceded by Puntland and Jubbaland in Somalia’s fledgling federal arrangement. It consists of three regions (provinces), Lower Shebelle, Bay and Bakol and 18 districts, and has the most diverse number of clans in the country. Although no accurate census data are available, it is also thought to be one of the most populated regions in Somalia. Over the last seven years, a clamor for democratization, decentralization of authority and the formation of local governments through an indirect election has been growing in the state. This study explores Southwest’s attempts to form local district councils through indirect elections mediated by elders – a process that is more democratic than the practice of direct appointments.