Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, in an address to the nation this evening, discussed the country’s political situation, the electoral process, and the disputes between the Federal Government and opposition politicians.
The President described the “one-person, one-vote” electoral system as an initial step toward returning to the democratic process from which Somalia deviated 57 years ago, while acknowledging that the country’s political trajectory has not yet reached the desired level.
Hassan Sheikh noted that although Somalia has navigated various political phases over the past 30 years, an opportunity now exists to strengthen a system in which the public directly elects its leaders.
The President stated that “one-person, one-vote” elections have been held in areas within the South West, Galmudug, and Hirshabelle states, as well as the Banadir region, noting that these elections took place peacefully in 50 of the 92 districts that existed in 1990. According to him, the elections were held at 1,102 polling stations, with 1,824,853 citizens registered to vote. A total of 26,742 candidates competed, and 1,435 officials were elected through direct voting.
He further stated that no armed confrontations occurred at the polling stations, emphasizing that the law and the rulings of the Supreme Court were upheld.
In his address, Hassan Sheikh urged opposition politicians and community leaders to prioritize the national interest and to refrain from any actions that could undermine the country’s stability and unity.
He noted that the door to dialogue remains always open, and that any disputes can be resolved through discussion, consensus, and compromise—grounded in the common good of the nation and the Somali people.
The President also commended the former politicians and officials who accepted the election results, stating that respecting the will of the people and accepting the outcomes are the foundations of a sustainable democracy. Addressing his previous remark that decisions should not be left in a state of limbo, he clarified that he was not opposing consultation; rather, he emphasized the need to distinguish between decision-making and the consultative process. He warned that failing to grasp this distinction could lead to chaos.
The President underscored the Federal Government’s commitment to continuing the fight against Al-Shabaab, strengthening security, and implementing a “one person, one vote” electoral system.
Finally, Hassan Sheikh formally called upon all politicians in the country to come to the negotiating table through official channels.
He stated that the nation’s future rests in the hands of the Somali people, advocating for the creation of a system that enables every citizen to choose their preferred leader through their own vote.
This address comes amidst ongoing political debates regarding the electoral process, the powers of government institutions, and how to reach an inclusive political agreement.