The Political Landscape of Somalia: A Growing Division

Mogadishu (AX) — In recent days, a significant storm has been brewing within the political corridors of Somalia. The country’s top opposition leaders have turned their ire towards the federal government, vocally opposing its controversial decision to suspend the C6+ international cooperation framework. This move, they argue, is not merely a bureaucratic adjustment but rather a politically charged initiative that threatens to isolate Somalia from crucial international partners and jeopardizes years of development and diplomatic engagement.

Emerging from a five-day summit in the heart of Mogadishu, the Somali Salvation Forum—a coalition comprising 13 former national leaders, including ex-presidents, prime ministers, and parliamentary speakers—issued a unified statement laden with concern. They accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration of dismantling the mechanisms that promote inclusivity, centralizing authority instead. Their warning? Such actions could severely erode international trust and compromise Somalia’s ability to coordinate on vital issues like national security, democratic reforms, and humanitarian aid.

“The federal government’s abrupt suspension of these partnerships threatens Somalia’s credibility and weakens the foundations of cooperation with international allies,” the Forum articulated, capturing the collective anxiety of many Somalis who have witnessed the intricate dance of diplomacy in their nation.

The C6+ Framework: An Instrument of Stability

The C6+ framework, which includes major players such as the United Nations, African Union, European Union, United States, United Kingdom, Turkey, and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), was initially established during Somalia’s tumultuous post-conflict transitional era. It has since played a crucial role in fostering state-building efforts, peacekeeping initiatives, and the fledgling stages of democracy.

On June 12, the federal government formally made its intentions clear, calling for the dissolution of C6+ in a letter from the Office of the State Minister for Foreign Affairs directed to UN Special Representative James Swan. The letter argued that Somalia has graduated from its transitional status to that of a sovereign nation, equipped with functional institutions and a clear national development agenda. While the government expressed gratitude for the support received over the past decade, it has yet to receive an official response from any of the C6+ member states or the UN.

A Climate of Distrust and Political Suspicion

Intriguingly, the timing of this restoration of sovereignty raises eyebrows. Opposition leaders have pointed out that this announcement coincides with rising tensions around electoral reform, the dynamics between federal and regional states, and critical national security matters. The Forum contends that the federal government’s actions reflect an attempt to sideline regional leaders and dissenting voices while it consolidates power through alliances with federal member states whose mandates have long since expired—namely Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and Southwest.

One egregious point of contention comes from allegations that the government has unlawfully interfered in the selection process for members of Somalia’s National Independent Human Rights Commission, which directly violates Law No. 16. The Forum firmly urged the administration to cease its interference and uphold the integrity of independent oversight mechanisms, which should remain impartial and devoid of political manipulation.

Dialogue and the Hopes for Reformation

As we peer into the ramifications of the suspension of C6+, we find the once-prominent National Consultative Council has seemingly lost its footing as a legitimate platform for dialogue between federal and regional leaders. The Forum’s stark assessment paints a picture of a council that has become ineffective and largely disconnected from its purpose in a time when consensus is crucial.

Moreover, security remains a critical focal point for the opposition. The Forum has criticized the federal government’s strategy on counterterrorism, alleging neglect of the Somali National Army and community forces like the Ma’awisley, who have been at the frontline against Al-Shabaab. This begs the question: can Somalia hope for stability without a cohesive national strategy that supports these dedicated frontline forces?

The Call for Transparency

Another worrying trend has emerged: secretive dealings regarding Somalia’s public land and natural resources, concluded without any parliamentary approval or public dialogue. The opposition is demanding transparency, calling for a complete audit of recent agreements to restore public confidence. This call for accountability and ethical governance resonates deeply in a society that has faced challenges of trust and legitimacy for far too long.

On the matter of electoral reform, the Forum has firmly rejected any notion of reverting to the 2022 indirect voting model. Instead, they are advocating for the implementation of one-person, one-vote elections, grounded in the 2012 provisional constitution and the direct election laws passed by the 10th Parliament. The quest for a democratic process is nothing less than a call to honor fundamental rights and the dignity of every Somali citizen.

Looking Ahead: Is Dialogue Possible?

While President Hassan Sheikh has summoned stakeholders for a National Consultation Forum slated to kick off on June 15 in Mogadishu, the opposition has signaled they will not participate unless three critical conditions are met: inclusive representation from all federal member states and political factions, a clear public agenda, and a commitment to resolving constitutional and electoral disputes openly. This sets the stage for a potential confrontation—or, perhaps, the opportunity for genuine dialogue.

Even former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo echoed these sentiments, warning that excluding Northeastern State and Jubbaland could undermine the efficacy and legitimacy of the process. His critique of the current government’s move away from consensus-based frameworks highlights a broader yearning for unity in a fractured landscape.

Meanwhile, government officials have issued their retorts—Defence Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi and Transport Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur asserted that the opposition is spurning opportunities for national dialogue, despite invitations extended by the presidency. The Forum, however, remains steadfast in its commitment to engage in any lawful and inclusive dialogue aimed at restoring vital checks and balances in governance.

In closing, the Forum poignantly reflected on a tragic reality: the loss of Somali youth who’ve tragically perished in their attempts to migrate to Europe across the Mediterranean. Their untimely deaths serve as a heartbreaking metaphor for the despair bred by hopelessness, political exclusion, and dwindling economic opportunities at home. How many more will embark on such perilous journeys before the climate of despair is addressed effectively?

The unfolding political narrative in Somalia invites each of us to reflect deeply on the complex interplay of aspirations, governance, and the human spirit. How will Somalia navigate its course towards democracy and unity in these turbulent times?

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international—Monitoring.