term

Is there a more apt moment to reflect on the saying, "A week is a long time in politics"? If we consider the recent upheavals in Washington, we might find it hard to disagree. The third week of Donald Trump's second term has proven to be nothing short of extraordinary. Take, for example, his audacious suggestion that the United States could take ownership of a largely empty Gaza. This proclamation, while stunning, might not even rank among the week’s top three most impactful events—a testament to the current climate of…

Mogadishu (AX) — Imagine a bustling city square in Mogadishu, where purposeful steps echo on the pavement, and the air is charged with political ambitions tinged with skepticism. Somalia’s federal government finds itself in an ideological whirlpool, debating the merits and pitfalls of extending regional state leaders’ terms. This move, they argue, is a deliberate gambit toward transforming Somalia's electoral landscape into a "one person, one vote" democracy—a tantalizing prospect for many but fraught with complexities and…

On a brisk January 20, 2025, the grand stage is set at the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., where U.S. President Donald Trump gears up to retake his oath of office. As he stands amid the echo of history, bathed in the wintry sunlight, he dons the mantle of leadership for a second term. The air thrums with a palpable energy; this moment promises changes that will ripple across America and beyond. With the solemnity fitting the occasion, Trump proclaims, "I, Donald John Trump, do solemnly swear that I will…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a bold announcement, Somali Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre announced that Jubbaland's leader, Ahmed Madobe, cannot stand for another term. Barre referenced Article 70 of the Jubbaland Constitution, which sets a two-term limit for the presidency. This declaration comes amidst a growing tension in the region, as Madobe seeks to hold onto power. On Monday in Mogadishu, Barre pulled no punches, accusing Madobe of prioritizing his own interests above the national agenda of Somalia. Barre alleges that Madobe…

Renowned for her personal history and commitment to progressive values, Ilhan Omar has consistently been a beacon for change. Born in Somalia, Omar's journey to becoming a member of Congress reflects a deep personal engagement with issues affecting immigrants and minorities. Her candidacy and eventual victories in elections have been testaments to her influential persona and unwavering beliefs. Omar's re-election campaign faced fierce competition from Dalia Al-Aqidi, an Iraqi-born secular Muslim and former journalist.…

In Zimbabwe’s ruling party, Zanu PF, there’s been a whirlwind of pushback against the prospect of President Emmerson Mnangagwa extending his tenure past 2028. Despite his firm assertions that he wishes to serve only two terms, the internal dynamics within his party are growing increasingly fractious. Some factions are fervently calling for a change in the Constitution, seeking to abolish term limits altogether. Dubbed the ED2030 campaign, this slogan has not only kept the populace of Zimbabwe brimming with apprehension, but…

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Just a couple of years back, before he snagged a second term, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was one of the loudest voices railing against tampering with the constitution, frequently slamming his forerunner, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, for allegedly scheming to prolong his stay in office. The uproar was intense, sparking protests nationwide from all corners—civilians, opposition figures, and even military personnel, some of whom went as far as to revolt. Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, better known as Farmajo, was…

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…

From left to right: Former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, once-Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and Opposition Leader Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame have formed a united front against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. They're strongly opposing what they claim are his actions to prolong his presidency—a move they argue would breach the constitution and jeopardize the nation's political steadiness. Mogadishu (AX) — Three prominent Somali opposition leaders are ringing alarm bells against President Hassan Sheikh…