Somalia Opposition Council Warns of Political Crisis as Election Deadlines Near

Somalia: Opposition Council Warns of Political Crisis as Election Deadlines Loom

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s Somali Future Council has raised the alarm over what it calls dangerous delays in the country’s electoral timetable, accusing the federal leadership of neglecting its constitutional responsibilities.

In a sharply worded statement issued Wednesday, the council said the mandate of federal institutions is due to expire on April 14, 2026, under the provisional constitution. It warned that continued failure to put an election framework in place could push the Horn of Africa nation into another political standoff.

The group aimed its criticism squarely at President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, saying he has not moved quickly enough to organize elections and is seeking an extension without securing a broad political consensus.

“The President’s term officially ends on May 15, 2026,” the statement read. “Beyond that date, there will be no legal basis for him to remain in office without a consensus-based election.”

The opposition council urged Somalis to “defend the constitution” and resist any effort to prolong terms unilaterally or install an unauthorized transitional arrangement.

Turning to Somalia’s international partners, the council called on the global community to pay close attention to the worsening political situation and to back free and fair elections reached through an inclusive settlement.

The statement said Somalia’s stability and long-term future depend on adherence to the constitution, openness in the electoral process, and political dialogue that brings all sides to the table.

The federal government has not yet issued a formal response to the council’s allegations.

AXADLETM