political

KISMAYO, Somalia — In a bid that echoes through the halls of Somali politics like a long-lost melody, the Jubaland state has extended an olive branch, urging a tête-à-tête with the Somali federal government. This gesture, announced on Monday by a regional minister, hints at a possible thaw in the frozen lake of their political standoff. Jubaland, one of Somalia's crucial federal states, has frequently found itself at loggerheads with the seat of power in Mogadishu. The reasons are manifold. Whether it's conflicting…

In a pivotal moment for Belgian politics, Bart De Wever, a stalwart of conservatism, has officially assumed the role of Prime Minister. This follows an arduous journey toward coalition formation, which has reshaped the political landscape of the nation, demonstrating a notable shift to the right. After seven months fraught with negotiation, the coalition agreement was finally sealed late Friday night. With this, De Wever becomes the first nationalist from the predominantly Dutch-speaking region of Flanders to lead Belgium.…

FILE – Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and his Somali counterpart, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, share a moment in Cairo, August 2024 – Egyptian Presidency In a move that could stir the diplomatic waters of the region, the heads of state from Egypt and Somalia put pen to paper on Thursday, sealing a joint political declaration. This pact aims to forge a strategic partnership, elevating the bilateral ties to a higher echelon. The grand halls of Cairo saw President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi roll out a warm Egyptian…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a city buzzing with political anticipation and the scent of change on the breeze, Somalia's National Electoral Commission and Boundaries dropped a significant bombshell on Monday. They've flung open the doors for political groups to sign up for the much-anticipated one-person, one-vote election coming down the pike. Seated at the helm of this pivotal announcement, Commission Chairman Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan took the stage in Mogadishu, laying down the law amid camera flashes. "Political organizations,…

Political Dissonance and Repression in North Western State of Somalia Hargeisa (AX) — In the dusty echoes of North Western State of Somalia’s political landscape, a storm is brewing. The newly-minted administration of President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, perhaps not as squeaky clean as a new pin, has already directed its gaze upon activists and journalists who dare to question or challenge the status quo. This recent crackdown has reignited worries about political oppression, even with new faces steering the…

**Introduction** Somalia, with all its spirited endurance, embraced federalism in an effort to juggle varying interests and wrestle with its tumultuous past. Yet, this grand vision faces some hiccups, struggling to establish a foothold in the post-conflict heart of the nation. At the heart of federalism lies a rich lineage as detailed by Nigerian scholar Adeola Gabriel. Tracing its roots from the throes of the 17th century to the radiant enlightenment of the 19th, it’s a legacy of intellect and governance. Back in the day,…

In the bustling heart of Hargeisa, the political landscape sparkled with freshly minted licenses for three key parties—Waddani, Kaah, and Kulmiye. This development unfolded at a spirited gathering in the Ambassador Hotel, set against the backdrop of North Western State of Somalia’s dynamic political scene. A ceremony on Wednesday marked this momentous occasion, graced by none other than North Western State of Somalia’s helmsman, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi Irro. With an air of triumph, the President observed the…

Mogadishu (AX) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud plans to journey to Beledweyne, the heart of the Hiiraan region, aiming to mediate long-standing tensions between the community and the administration of Hirshabelle. His visit comes on the heels of significant strides made by a federal group that includes notables like Army Chief General Odawaa Yusuf Raage and NISA Director Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sanbaloolshe. This crew struck a deal with Hawadle clan leaders to hand over Beledweyne's security to national forces, a move…

Jubaland's Political Dilemmas: Independent Elections and the Pushback from Mogadishu Kismayo (AX)— Thursday was a pivotal day for Jubaland's parliament as it undertook the task of electing its new leaders, including a parliamentary speaker and two deputy speakers. This process involves candidates detailing their visions, followed by a vote, and concluding with swearing in the new victors. These elections are a significant milestone leading up to the presidential election scheduled for November 25, marking a meticulous…

"This groundbreaking legislation lays the groundwork for a transparent political process guided by the constitution," Interior Minister Ali Yusuf Ali Hosh declared with enthusiasm, commending lawmakers for their unanimous thumbs-up. "This is a whopping milestone for fortifying our democratic institutions." With this new law, a robust framework is set for political parties, ensuring they conduct themselves with transparency and responsibility while staying in step with Somalia’s Constitution. It’s a crucial move in the…