Political Tensions Escalate as Somali Lawmakers Call for Presidential Resignation

Mogadishu (AX) – A significant development in the Somali political landscape has unfolded, as a robust bloc of 103 members from Somalia’s bicameral Federal Parliament has issued a striking joint statement. They are not just calling for change; they are demanding the resignation of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This bold move comes amid serious allegations, including gross constitutional violations, abuse of power, and a perceived failure to steer the country through a maelstrom of security, economic, and humanitarian crises.

On a Thursday that seemed laden with tension, the lawmakers articulated their concerns through a press release. They expressed dismay over what they perceive as the president’s abandonment of his constitutional duties. Notably, they highlighted his March 29, 2025, pledge to engage in a national dialogue with Somali political and cultural leaders—a promise they argue has been egregiously neglected. Instead of fostering unity, the claim is that his administration has embarked on a course of divisive policies, further alienating the populace and fracturing the fragile fabric of national unity.

Delving deeper into the lawmakers’ accusations reveals a range of serious issues. They contend that the president has dismantled the National Consultative Council (NCC), invaded the autonomy of federal member states—especially Northeastern State and Jubbaland—and compromised the independence of vital government institutions. To add to the gravity of their claims, they allege signs of corruption, clandestine agreements, and widespread mismanagement. Moreover, they assert that the president’s failure to uphold the constitution may provide legitimate grounds for his removal from office.

These politicians are not alone in their concerns. Alarmingly, they also pointed to what they characterize as a dangerous shift toward authoritarianism in the president’s governance style. They cite instances of secret agreements that have been executed without the necessary parliamentary oversight and claim that state resources have been misappropriated to support the recently established Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP).

Interestingly, the parliamentary call for the president’s resignation comes hot on the heels of a somewhat similar statement released by sixteen prominent Somali political figures. This group, which includes former Presidents Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, as well as former Prime Ministers Hassan Ali Khayre, Mohamed Hussein Rooble, Omar Abdirashid Sharmarke, and Abdi Farah Shirdon (Saacid), accused the president of eroding Somalia’s federal structure. They insist that the NCC has been degraded into a mere partisan political platform, further undermining the ideals of governance.

At the core of the criticism lies the recent inception of the JSP, a party chaired by none other than President Hassan Sheikh and supported by several top federal officials. Many critics are asking—what does it mean for a leader to chair a political party while simultaneously presiding over the state? To them, the formation of the JSP blurs the critical lines between state affairs and political ambitions, especially at a time when Somalia battles threats from al-Shabaab, economic instability, and a populace growing increasingly restive.

As the political pressure mounts, it is noteworthy that President Hassan Sheikh and the leadership of Villa Somalia have yet to offer a formal response to the lawmakers’ joint call or the critiques from these influential political figures. The uncertainty surrounding the president’s next steps leaves many pondering: what will this escalating political turmoil mean for the future of Somalia? Will these tensions further complicate the nation’s already arduous journey toward stability and the long-awaited transition to universal suffrage?

The implications of this growing political crisis are profound. The delicate balance of power, the people’s trust in leadership, and the overarching quest for national unity are all on the line. As Somalia inches forward, navigating the complex waters of governance, these recent events serve as crucial reminders of how leadership shapes the fate of nations.

In mid-June 2023, amidst similar political discord, a prominent Somali poet poignantly captured the nation’s feelings with a simple, powerful line: “When leaders lose sight of their people, they lose their right to lead.” Perhaps this is a sentiment that resonates deeply in today’s Somalia, where the people yearn not just for change, but for leaders who are genuinely invested in guiding their nation toward a brighter future.

As we stand witness to this unfolding saga, the question remains: can leaders rise above the fray, learn from the past, and steer their nation toward peace and prosperity? Only time will reveal the answers as Somalia grapples with its intricate political landscape.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring