Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has accused political opponents of attempting to derail Somalia’s transition to a one-person, one-vote electoral system, warning that a return to indirect voting could plunge the country back into instability.
Speaking during Somali Youth Day celebrations in Mogadishu, President Mohamud said the days of “backroom deals” determining national leadership were over. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to implementing direct elections, stating that voter registration had already begun in the capital and electoral frameworks were in progress.
“The Somali people now hold the power,” he declared. “We will not revert to a system where political elites select leaders behind closed doors.”
The president’s comments come amid growing resistance to his electoral agenda. A group of 103 members of Somalia’s bicameral parliament recently issued a joint statement calling for his resignation, citing alleged constitutional violations, interference in federal states, and the dissolution of the National Consultative Council (NCC). They accused the president of consolidating power through partisan means rather than building national consensus.
Further intensifying the political divide, the recent launch of the Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP)—with President Mohamud as chairman and presidential candidate—has sparked criticism from various sectors. Key federal and regional officials currently in government were named to senior party positions, leading opponents to argue that the ruling administration is blurring the line between state and party.
Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni rejected the JSP’s formation, calling it a “repackaged version” of the outdated clan-based system and warning it could erode Somalia’s federal structure. He accused the federal government of using democratic reforms as a façade for centralizing power in Mogadishu.
Sixteen high-profile political figures, including former presidents and prime ministers, also issued a joint statement criticizing President Mohamud’s leadership. They expressed concern over the collapse of the NCC and warned that the current approach risks further destabilization. The signatories urged the president to prioritize inclusive dialogue and uphold Somalia’s provisional constitution.
In response, President Mohamud dismissed claims that his reforms undermine national unity, arguing that critics lack policy alternatives and instead seek to obstruct progress. He defended Somalia’s security forces and criticized comments that questioned their ability to confront Al-Shabaab, suggesting such rhetoric undermines national morale.
“The previous model of selecting MPs in hours and stuffing them in pockets brought no benefit,” the president said. “This time, it could cost lives.”
The administration insists that finalizing Somalia’s provisional constitution and delivering universal suffrage remain top priorities. Officials say the electoral reforms are essential for sustainable governance after decades of conflict and instability.
However, with opposition intensifying and security threats from Al-Shabaab ongoing, the road to democratic transformation appears increasingly complex and politically charged.