Somalia’s Political Landscape: The Emergence of the Xaqsoor Party

Mogadishu (AX) — As Somalia inches closer to its first direct national elections since the tumultuous year of 1969, the political stage is witnessing a transformation. A new reformist political party, the Xaqsoor Party, spearheaded by former Minister of Planning Abdirahman Aynte, aims to challenge the status quo of elite-driven governance and systemic injustices. This week, the party made its debut against a backdrop of rising tensions between federal and regional authorities concerning the electoral process.

As Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and federal officials promote an ongoing voter registration initiative, opposition figures have raised alarms over what they claim is a unilateral approach by the government. They have voiced concerns about the potential emergence of parallel elections, particularly in certain regions. It seems the landscape is charged with anticipation yet deeply divided.

In the midst of this brewing political storm, the Xaqsoor Party emerges as a symbol of hope. Aynte articulated this sentiment poignantly at the party’s launch, rallying over a thousand supporters at Mogadishu’s Afrik Hotel. “Injustice is Somalia’s number one, two, and three calamities,” he declared. This powerful statement resonates with a population weary of corruption and insecurity. “When injustice goes unchecked, corruption flourishes, insecurity spreads, and clan divisions harden. We formed Xaqsoor to combat that injustice so that the law protects every citizen, power answers to the people, and every Somali child can build a bright future right here at home,” he said, encapsulating the party’s vision.

The name “Xaqsoor” carries deep significance, translating to “justice” or “fair share” in Somali. This was not a whimsical title chosen on a whim; it stems from over a year of grassroots consultations involving citizens, youth activists, educators, religious leaders, and professionals from various regions. Such inclusivity highlights the party’s commitment to listening and responding to the needs of everyday Somalis.

Aynte’s leadership was unanimously affirmed at the event, with Abdi Ahmed Mohamed Baafo—an experienced former Agriculture Minister and academic—taking the role of Chair of the Central Committee. This leadership structure is designed to ensure that the voices within the party remain diverse and representative of the broader Somali society.

Xaqsoor is not merely another political entity. “It’s a movement rooted in our Islamic values and Somali identity,” emphasized Baafo, aiming to elevate the voices of the silent majority longing for a break from business-as-usual politics. The party’s Executive Council boasts a dynamic team, including two deputy leaders, a secretary-general, and a 19-member leadership composed of individuals dedicated to governance, youth engagement, diaspora relations, and social development. Together, they are setting the foundations for a truly participatory political movement.

The launch of the Xaqsoor Party comes at a pivotal moment for Somalia’s political evolution. April marked a significant milestone when the government initiated direct voter registration in Mogadishu for the first time in decades. This development signals a critical departure from clan-based electoral frameworks, allowing for a more inclusive and fair representation of the electorate. The National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) has further extended voter registration into the Banadir region, providing hopeful momentum.

However, this shift is not without its challenges. Increasing tensions between federal and regional authorities pose significant hurdles, with leaders in Jubaland and Northeastern State expressing dissatisfaction with a process they perceive as overly centralized. Moreover, opposition parties like Himilo Qaran have criticized the NIEC for its alleged disregard of legal and political consensus. In such a complex environment, can a party like Xaqsoor effectively cut through the noise and deliver meaningful change?

The founders of Xaqsoor argue that Somalia’s current political paradigm has persistently failed its citizens. They cite issues like relentless insecurity, pervasive corruption, and governance that prioritizes elite interests over public needs. The party aims to build a grassroots support network strong enough to challenge the status quo in the upcoming 2026 elections, placing the focus back on the long-term well-being of ordinary Somali citizens.

While the question remains: can Xaqsoor truly rise above the deep-rooted clan dynamics that have long dictated Somali politics? Its launch certainly signals a growing demand for change among a segment of the electorate who are eager for a new chapter.

As we observe these ongoing developments, it’s crucial to recognize that real change often starts from the ground up. Can the vision of justice espoused by Xaqsoor inspire a collective movement towards accountability and unity? Time will reveal the answers, and the anticipation of this unfolding journey is palpable.