Somalia: Opposition Leaders Condemn Proposed Extension of Presidential Term, Pledge to Fight Legally
MOGADISHU, Somalia — Former President Sheikh Sharif Ahmed, ex-PM Hassan Ali Khaire, and member of parliament Abdirahman Abdishakur fiercely criticized President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, stating he’s pulling strings to illegitimately extend his tenure. These verbal jabs follow failed high-stakes discussions meant to soothe federal-state relations and reveal an ominous narrative in Somalia, a nation already battling the menace of Al-Shabaab.
In a fiery declaration released on Monday, the opposition titans pledged a court showdown to dissolve any audacious political maneuvers, spotlighting the simmering political strife in the region. They claimed the hypocrisy in President Hassan Sheikh’s advocacy for a “one person, one vote” system, saying it’s just smoke and mirrors to cling to power. Such accusations bring déjà vu as a similar power grab was thwarted for a previous leader, driving home the semblance of repetitive executive sneakiness, as noted by the past officeholders.
Further fanning the flames, Jubaland’s leader, Ahmed Madoobe, ditched Mogadishu, turning his back on final attempts to reel him into further parleys at the NCC assembly over burning political matters. His departure illustrates a major crack in cooperative efforts, mirroring the widespread backlash against central authorities’ power-preserving tactics.
The declaration does more than question President Hassan Sheikh’s governance; it puts Somalia’s delicate democracy under the microscope. With the former leaders rallying for action, Somalia might face new legal and political storms while attempting to bring stability post-chaos.
AXADLETM
