MOGADISHU, Somalia, June 1 – In the heart of Mogadishu, a city both vibrantly alive and haunted by its history, the political landscape is heating up once again. With his term nearing its end, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud finds himself under increasing scrutiny. A wave of opposition voices, including some familiar faces from the corridors of power, are calling for a transformation—a cry for inclusive and credible elections resonates across the nation.

Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, a man whose words carry weight in Somali politics, did not mince words. He openly criticized President Mohamud, suggesting that he has undone the hard-earned consensus achieved during the 2000 Arta Peace Conference in Djibouti. This conference was a cornerstone in shaping Somalia’s post-conflict governance, and the claim of its dismantling is not one to be taken lightly.

“The president has destroyed the Carta Agreement reached 25 years ago. Unfortunately, he has wasted a golden opportunity for this nation,” Khaire articulated with a sense of urgency at an opposition forum over the weekend.

The debates center around whether President Mohamud has sidelined foundational issues for personal political gain. The critics argue that he chose consolidation of power over tackling national dilemmas such as the ongoing threat of Al-Shabaab and military operations in the southern Jubaland region. Somalia’s struggle with conflict zones, which had seen a semblance of stability, is regressing—a concerning development for a nation yearning for peace.

Furthermore, voices from the opposition claim unfulfilled promises. A comprehensive national constitution remains elusive, a unified electoral framework is yet to be realized, and equitable power-sharing between federal and member states seems a distant dream. Albert Einstein once said, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” So, the real question is, why was this golden opportunity allowed to slip away?

Many accuse President Mohamud of playing favorites, suggesting that clan loyalties and personal alliances overshadow national priorities. Have these actions inadvertently centralised power, leaving parliament and the cabinet in a merely symbolic role?

Security remains a significant concern. With Al-Shabaab still posing threats and a fractured political scene, the country’s future seems precarious. What does this mean for Somalia’s relationship with the international community? The United States, historically a substantial backer, is showing signs of withdrawal, leaving Somalia to question who will stand with them in their time of need.

The African Union mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), a new endeavor since January 2025, grapples with financial constraints. As the US pulls back financially, the AU faces the challenge of sustaining a mission without critical funds. Over 11,000 Somali troops operate under this mission, and their future salaries hang in the balance.

Reflecting on Somalia’s journey prompts crucial introspection. How do we ensure that opportunities aren’t continually squandered? When paths not taken echo louder than footsteps trod, where do we direct our gaze?