Beledweyne Community Unites for Democratic Elections and Al-Shabaab Resistance
- Advertisement -
In an inspiring turn of events, the Hawadle community of Somalia has thrown its weight behind the federal government’s vision to introduce one-person, one-vote elections. After years of indirect voting processes, this marks a significant departure. Yet, what spurred this shift in political culture? Perhaps it’s the timeless truth that voices directly cast are the echoes of genuine democracy.
During a momentous gathering on a sunny Thursday afternoon, a diverse group of stakeholders assembled in Beledweyne. The mighty hall was filled with the presence of individuals representing various facets of leadership, governance, and society. Among them were the esteemed Minister of Petroleum, Dahir Shire Mohamed, the venerable former President of Hirshabelle, Ali Abdullahi Osoble, and the dynamic Banadir Regional Administration Secretary, Faisal Araale. The room was vibrant with discussions, weaving together the young and old, connected by a shared vision and an unwavering determination to end the specter of Al-Shabaab.
“I declare that the community is ready if a one-person, one-vote election is held, and they are the first to be ready for it. I also urge the community to strengthen the fight against the Khawarij and for the people of Banadir to be part of the national liberation struggle,” emphasized Araale with conviction.
Araale’s passionate assertion was met with rounds of applause, embodying a spirit of hope and resilience. His call reverberated through the hall, a call not just to duty but to the very essence of civic engagement. An old saying came to mind, “If not us, who? If not now, when?”
Amidst the dialogue, cautionary words were ushered by Ali Abdullahi Osoble, the sage voice of reason. He reminded the assembly of unity’s power during tumultuous times. “President Hassan Sheikh, the war on your Abgal clan side is not going on, so leave politics aside. Intelligence and politics do not go together. We are in the fight, so set aside the distractions and focus on the battle,” his voice echoed with a firm resolve to carve a single path forward.
National unity is the call of the hour, and Ali Jeyte Osman, leader of the Ma’awisley clan militia, stood as a testament to this truth. He was neither aloof nor reticent, instead embodying the strength garnered from collective resolve, fortified by the belief that together, they could defy insurmountable odds.
What does it take to spearhead change? Minister Dahir Shire Mohamed tackled this question with an unfaltering dedication. “We, the Hawadle community, will not be passive; rather, we will take the lead. I am here to represent you. We want to be the first community ready for public elections, just as we were the first to initiate the liberation struggle,” he declared with aplomb, urging for unwavering commitment toward the anticipated electoral shift.
Speaking of commitments, one cannot ignore the challenges looming over these aspirations. Resistance from regions like Jubbaland and Northeastern State reminded the government that the road to change is often riddled with obstacles. Yet, isn’t it the obstacles that make the journey worth undertaking?
The momentum within Beledweyne is a narrative woven with wisdom, questions, and an ode to indomitable human spirit. It serves as a poignant reminder of the bridges built by community engagement, set against the backdrop of Somalia’s evolving political landscape.
