Mogadishu (AX) — The Somali Salvation Forum, a coalition of prominent opposition groups spearheaded by former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, released a powerful statement this past Saturday night. In it, they leveled serious accusations against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, asserting that he is undermining national cohesion and straying from the mutually agreed-upon blueprint for state-building.
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The statements emerged following a significant meeting in Mogadishu, where concerns were raised regarding the President’s increasing political isolation. The Forum highlighted what they perceive as a troubling attempt by the President to consolidate power. Specifically, they allege that he is extending ties with federal member states whose mandates have expired, aligning them with his ruling party. This raises profound questions: what does this mean for the democratic processes that are supposed to guide Somalia’s political landscape?
While the Forum has underscored its commitment to combatting terrorism—namely Al-Shabaab and ISIS—they do not shy away from criticizing the current military strategy employed by the government. Their assertion is stark and pointed: national forces and local community fighters on the frontlines are being overlooked. They are advocating for a cohesive national strategy designed to uphold the stability of Somalia. It’s one thing to confront an external enemy; it’s another thing to ensure that those on the ground have the support they need. Are we doing enough to empower our frontline defenders?
One of the striking concerns raised by the Forum is regarding the expired mandates of pivotal regional administrations, including Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and Southwest State. They warn that any extensions to these mandates, particularly if they are aligned with the President’s party, could be seen as unconstitutional and politically motivated. The implications are significant: this maneuvering could signal an attempt by President Hassan Sheikh to secure electoral advantages that could further destabilize an already fragile federal structure. As the saying goes, “Power tends to corrupt; absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Are we witnessing a troubling trend?
Moreover, the Forum has taken a firm stance on the widening rift between the federal government and Northeastern State and Jubbaland. They condemned recent federal actions in the Gedo region, labeling them as politically incendiary. In this landscape marked by distrust, their call for the lifting of sanctions and restrictions on areas governed by Jubbaland is crucial. Can we expect cooperation when distrust clouds our interactions?
The Somali Salvation Forum has proposed a pressing national summit that would convene federal and state leaders along with opposition groups. This summit aims to not only restore unity but also conceive a coordinated effort to tackle terrorism, resolve lingering constitutional disputes, and address the contentious issue of resource sharing. Unity is a powerful tool; can collaboration be rekindled amidst turmoil?
Shifting towards electoral matters, the Forum has firmly rejected a return to the electoral framework established in 2022. They advocate for a return to a more fundamental principle: one-person, one-vote elections, steeped in the guiding tenets of the 2012 provisional constitution. They call for a transparent, inclusive process grounded in the laws ratified by previous parliaments, including the direct election law passed by the 10th Parliament. Could these reforms restore faith in our electoral systems?
Lastly, the necessity of resuming talks between Somalia and North Western State of Somalia has not escaped the Forum’s notice. They caution against what they perceive as foreign-driven agendas that threaten to fragment the Somali nation. It’s essential to keep the broader picture in mind. What forces are truly at play, and how might they influence our paths toward unity?
The statement from the Somali Salvation Forum serves as a poignant reminder of the deepening political divisions that loom ahead of what promises to be a tumultuous electoral period. It signals the potential for increased instability if inclusive dialogue and foundational legal frameworks are not revived and respected. Without collective understanding, how can we hope to progress?
In moving forward, it’s crucial for all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue. Only through collaboration, transparency, and mutual respect can Somalia hope to navigate the turbulent waters of its political landscape and foster a united future.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
