political

The Chairperson of the Human Rights Defenders Coalition (HRDC), Gift Trapence, has expressed deep concerns regarding the Malawi Police Service's sluggish response in addressing escalating political violence. He is calling for prompt action and accountability, highlighting a disturbing pattern of inaction. In a pointed critique, Trapence questioned the integrity of the police force, suggesting that their failure to act betrays the public trust. “How can citizens feel secure when those sworn to protect them remain idle?” he…

Somalia: Northeastern State President Advocates for Inclusive Discussions Amid Political Stalemate AXADLE, Somalia - In an era where dialogue often serves as a bridge over troubled waters, Said Abdullahi Deni, the President of Northeastern State, stands as a proponent of genuine discourse. "Dialogue is not something to be feared but embraced," he states. His words come at a time when engagement is more crucial than ever. Deni acknowledges the current attempts by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to initiate…

Somalia’s Political Crossroads: President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's Challenges MOGADISHU, Somalia – As the clock ticks down to Somalia’s national elections, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud finds himself navigating rough political waters. With only a year left in his term, he faces mounting pressure as discord between the federal government and regional states threatens the nation’s delicate political balance. President Mohamud is championing the adoption of a one-person, one-vote electoral system. However, this vision has…

Somalia finds itself in a precarious state, entrapped by a cycle of recycled political elites whose ambitions and rivalries continually hinder national progress. Despite numerous attempts at reconciliation and dialogue, the leadership crisis has deepened, culminating in the disappointing failure of the national dialogue initiative proposed by the current president. One is left to wonder—at what point do these empty promises cease to resonate with a populace yearning for genuine change? Ironically, many of those opposing the…

Remembering Edgar Lungu: A Complex Legacy Edgar Lungu, the former President of Zambia, has left us. His daughter, Tasila Lungu, who serves as a member of parliament, confirmed his passing in a heartfelt video statement shared by the Patriotic Front (PF). She mentioned that her father had faced his illness with remarkable “dignity and privacy,” a tribute to his character that resonates deeply during such a painful time. The PF also disclosed that Lungu had been undergoing specialized treatment in South Africa for an…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a recent and impactful statement, former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has voiced his deep concerns regarding the upcoming National Consultation Forum convened by current President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This public address, issued on Thursday, revolves around the critical themes of inclusivity and comprehensive stakeholder engagement in the national dialogue. Farmaajo's remarks come against a backdrop of increasing anxiety regarding the political climate in Somalia. He has pointedly…

Mogadishu (AX) — In an important step toward fostering national unity and addressing pressing governance issues, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has officially announced the commencement of the National Consultation Forum. Scheduled to open in Mogadishu on June 15, 2025, this high-level gathering aims to bring together political and civil society leaders to discuss critical state-building priorities. “In times of uncertainty, dialogue becomes not just a mechanism, but a bridge,” President Hassan Sheikh articulated…

Somalia’s President Announces New Political Forum Amid NCC’s Collapse into Ruling Party Bloc Mogadishu – In a move that might reshape Somalia’s political landscape, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has revealed plans for a national political consultative forum set for June 15, 2025, in Mogadishu. This gathering aims to unite politicians, community leaders, and essential political figures from across the nation. The President's office shared the forum’s intent as a way to bridge differing perspectives and engage in…

Mahad Salad Reappointed as NISA Chief Amid Mounting Political Tensions in Somalia Mogadishu – In a significant development, the Federal Government of Somalia has reappointed Mahad Mohamed Salad as the Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). This strategic move was executed following a proposal by the Ministry of Internal Security and subsequently approved by the Council of Ministers during an emergency session today. Villa Somalia's plans to replace Abdullahi Mohamed Ali, known as…

Clan Rivalries and Political Fractures: A Pressing Threat to Somalia's Future MOGADISHU, Somalia - During an insightful conversation with The Washington Post, Larry André, the dedicated United States ambassador to Somalia from February 2022 until May 2023, painted a concerning picture of Somalia’s ongoing struggles. Despite remarkable efforts to promote national cohesion, the sharp edges of clan rivalries and political discord continue to precariously balance the nation on the edge of instability. Reflecting…