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Somalia’s president denies plot to cling to power as debate over constitution deepens When President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud sat down with the BBC Somali Service this week, his tone was both defensive and conciliatory. He rejected accusations from opposition figures that he is manoeuvring to prolong his hold on office, insisting that only the country’s independent electoral commission — not politicians — can set election timetables. “No individual politician has veto power,” he said, adding that if the commission needs more…

The Dimensions of Power: Chad’s Constitutional Shifts and the Future of Democracy In an echo of a familiar refrain across many African nations, Chad’s National Assembly has recently voted with overwhelming support for constitutional amendments that extend the presidential term from five to seven years, with the possibility of renewals indefinitely. The decision is part of a broader narrative of governance in the Sahel, raising crucial questions about democracy, power, and the persistence of authoritarianism in regions…

Somalia’s Political Crossroads: A Call for Electoral Unity MOGADISHU — As Somalia grapples with an ever-complex political landscape, former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has sounded a clarion call for urgency and unity in electoral matters. In his latest press conference held in Mogadishu, the leader of the opposition Salvation Forum vehemently opposed any attempts to extend the current government’s constitutional mandate, stating, “There is still ample time to conduct a credible and inclusive election before May 15,…

Breaking Barriers: Northern Kenya's New Path to Inclusivity In a significant move for Kenya's northern regions, Deputy President Kithure Kindiki recently championed President William Ruto's abolition of the contentious ID vetting process, a change hailed as a step towards equal treatment for all Kenyans. Speaking to Lagdera residents in Garissa, Kindiki emphasized the importance of Ruto's efforts to dismantle discriminatory practices that have historically marginalized Northeastern communities. Ending Decades of…

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…