Somali Parliament Erupts as 103 Lawmakers Demand President Mohamud's Resignation
Today, a political storm is brewing in Somalia — and it’s gaining force by the hour. A staggering 103 members of Somalia’s Federal Parliament have stepped forward in a dramatic and unified demand: they are calling for President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to resign, citing grave constitutional violations and accusations of authoritarian overreach. It’s not just a political disagreement — this is an all-out institutional crisis.
As I speak, these lawmakers are raising the alarm over what they see as the president’s complete abandonment of constitutional responsibilities. Remember that national dialogue promised on March 29, 2025? That was supposed to bring together Somali political and cultural leaders in an open forum for consensus. Instead, what we’ve witnessed since is a deepening fracture in national unity — driven, they claim, by divisive policies and increasing centralization of power.
Their list of grievances is long — and serious. Dismantling the National Consultative Council (NCC), interfering in the internal affairs of federal states like Puntland and Jubaland, undermining key government institutions, and engaging in corruption and secret backdoor deals. The lawmakers are adamant: these aren’t just political missteps — these are violations that strike at the very heart of Somalia’s constitution and democratic framework.
Also Read:- Tension Builds as Trump's Tax Plan Faces Capitol Hill Hurdles
- Crimson Desert Might Be the Most Unexpected Fighting Game of 2025
And it’s not just parliament speaking up. Former Somali presidents and prime ministers — heavyweights like Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, and Hassan Ali Khayre — have also thrown their voices into the mix. Their joint statement accuses President Mohamud of hijacking the federal system, turning the NCC into a political machine rather than a unifying council.
The immediate spark behind this growing backlash? The recent unveiling of the Justice and Solidarity Party — or JSP — a powerful new political vehicle chaired by the president himself and populated by a roll-call of federal and regional elites, many of whom were once bitter political rivals. The critics say this party blurs the line between state and party — with public resources being used to build what is essentially an electoral machine ahead of the 2026 elections.
What’s unfolding here is more than just a leadership dispute. Somalia stands at a historic crossroads as it prepares for its first direct, one-person, one-vote elections since 1969. The launch of the JSP, while presented by President Mohamud as a symbol of unity and political maturity, is now being seen by many as a strategic power grab. His opponents argue that instead of building consensus, he's consolidating power and sidelining dissent.
Meanwhile, key regional figures like Puntland’s Saeed Deni and Jubaland’s Ahmed Madobe are reportedly forming an opposition alliance — meeting in Nairobi to challenge what they describe as the president’s expanding political control. And tensions are rising. Reports from northern Galkayo suggest that troops loyal to both sides have been deployed. The fear? That a political crisis could quickly spiral into armed confrontation.
So far, Villa Somalia — the presidential palace — has remained silent. No official response to the calls for resignation or the mounting opposition. But the message from the lawmakers is clear: this is not business as usual. If the allegations prove true, the very future of Somalia’s fragile federal system could be at risk.
One thing’s for certain — the coming days will be crucial. Whether this crisis leads to accountability and reform, or plunges the nation into deeper instability, depends on how Somalia’s leaders choose to respond.
Read More:
0 Comments