Somali leaders warn electoral disputes threaten national stability

Former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has warned that the federal government's pursuit of an electoral process without broad political consensus threatens national unity and security. Speaking in Mogadishu, Sharif criticized the administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for making unilateral decisions and called for a return to negotiations with opposition leaders to reach an agreement on the electoral transition.

Sharif argued that the government's mandate has expired and expressed concern that recent constitutional amendments lacked necessary political consensus. He noted that ongoing electoral disputes are diverting resources and attention from critical issues, including the fight against al-Shabab and addressing humanitarian and economic needs.

In a related development, Somali MP Abdimalik, representing the Hiiraan region, condemned the electoral process in Hirshabelle, labeling it illegitimate. The lawmaker alleged that the outcomes were predetermined and warned that proceeding without transparency could trigger a political and military confrontation similar to the current crisis in Southwest State.