Somalia’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hassan Moallim Mohamud, has warned of the political and security risks facing the country. He urged Somali stakeholders to set aside political disputes, clan interests, and power struggles in order to safeguard the existence of the state.
The Minister noted that Somalia faces multifaceted challenges—evident in Puntland, Somaliland, Jubaland, South West State, Hirshabelle, and across the country as a whole—and warned that internal divisions could create opportunities for neighboring countries and other global powers with interests in Somalia to exploit the situation.
He called on the youth—who he noted make up 75 to 80 percent of the Somali population—to spearhead a political transformation that would lead the country out of its current predicament. Furthermore, he welcomed a call issued by Somali religious scholars, which advocates for coming together and collaborating to resolve the nation’s problems. Hassan Ma’allin stated that Somalia is not compelled to continue with the current political system; rather, it is possible to re-evaluate the direction of governance and reach a new agreement regarding the constitution, power-sharing, resources, and the federal system.
He noted that Somalis need to discuss how to improve the federal system—or potentially move beyond it, should there be an alternative framework upon which a consensus can be reached—emphasizing that political reform is achievable if there is a unified will.
Furthermore, the minister specifically addressed the situation of the Somali armed forces, stating that the welfare, equipment, and support provided to soldiers are issues that must be addressed in a serious and substantive manner.
He argued that one cannot expect a soldier to sacrifice his life in defense of the country if the government does not guarantee his safety, his personal well-being, and the future of his family.