In a bold and unified move, sixteen of Somalia’s most influential political figures—including former presidents, prime ministers, and presidential candidates—have issued a joint statement raising serious concerns about the country’s political trajectory under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Justice and Solidarity Party Formation Sparks National Outcry
The controversy centers on the launch of the Justice and Solidarity Party, spearheaded by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
This newly formed political entity includes top leadership from the federal government, certain regional states, and members of the Federal Parliament.
Critics argue that its formation marks the de facto end of the National Consultative Council (NCC).
Which is a critical body designed to foster dialogue and cooperation between Somalia’s federal and regional governments.
A Statement was Signed by Somali Leaders
The signatories of the statement claim the president is abandoning political reconciliation efforts in favor of building a loyalist political alliance.
An approach they fear could push Somalia further into authoritarianism and political instability.
The group of Somali leaders has called for immediate national dialogue that includes all political stakeholders and civil society.
Their goal: to prevent what they describe as a slide into dictatorship and to preserve Somalia’s federal system and constitutional order.
The Launch of Justice and Solidarity Party May Affect Jubbaland.
They warned specifically against actions that could spark unrest in Jubbaland, urging President Mohamud to avoid political provocation that could endanger peace in the region.
“This is not the time to polarize the country with partisan politics,” the statement read. “It’s time to unite behind constitutional governance and inclusive leadership.”
Somali Leaders Praises the US
The statement praised the United States’ recent position.
As the US expressed support for the Somali people and rejected any unilateral decisions made without consensus.
Somali leaders called on other international partners to follow suit in defending Somalia’s democratic foundations and opposing political centralization.
Constitutional Mandates Expired: Leaders Urge Elections
The political figures also addressed the leadership in Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and South West states—whose constitutional terms have ended.
They demanded urgent elections in accordance with Somalia’s constitution and urged these regional leaders to stop enabling the president’s alleged campaign to undermine federalism.
Demand for UN-Led Anti-Corruption Probe
In a direct appeal to the UN, the statement requested that UN experts launch investigations into the widespread corruption affecting Somalia’s institutions.
The leaders demanded full transparency and accountability for those implicated in mismanagement and misuse of public funds.
Appreciation for Global Support
Despite these internal challenges, the statement ended on a hopeful note.
The leaders expressed gratitude to the international community for its continued support in Somalia’s state-building efforts.
They emphasized the importance of maintaining international attention and cooperation to ensure progress toward a stable, democratic, and corruption-free Somalia.
