Sunday October 18, 2026
Mogadishu (HOL) — Former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed on Saturday accused the federal government of pursuing an electoral process without broad political consensus, warning that continued unilateral decisions could deepen divisions and undermine the country's security and stability.
Speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu, Sharif criticized what he called the recent government statements suggesting that the country’s political future could be determined without consulting other stakeholders.
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He called on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's administration to return to negotiations and reach an agreement with opposition leaders and other political groups on the electoral process.
“The governance of Somalia does not and cannot rest in the hands of a single individual. If there is a path forward, it must be shared; if no such path exists, then it is incumbent upon the Somali people to deliberate and decide for themselves,” Sharif said.
The former president reiterated his position that the federal government's mandate had expired and criticized recent constitutional amendments, arguing that they lacked the political consensus required to govern the country's electoral transition.
He pointed to elections held in Mogadishu and the political crisis in South West State as examples of what he described as the consequences of conducting elections without an agreed framework.
Sharif warned that the continuing electoral dispute was diverting attention from pressing national challenges, including the fight against al-Shabab, maintaining security and addressing humanitarian and economic needs.
He said political leaders should prioritize national stability rather than pursue actions that could deepen polarization.
The former president also expressed concern that confrontational political rhetoric could undermine talks expected later this month, which are intended to address disagreements over the country's political and electoral future.
He urged government leaders, opposition figures and other stakeholders to engage in genuine dialogue and reach a broadly accepted agreement.
His remarks come amid growing disagreements over the election timetable announced by the National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC).
The commission has scheduled elections for both chambers of Somalia's Federal Parliament for April 15, 2027, followed by a presidential election on May 15.
Several opposition leaders and the Puntland and Jubbaland administrations have rejected the electoral framework and constitutional amendments, insisting that a political agreement must be reached before national elections proceed.
The federal government maintains that the revised Constitution and electoral laws provide the legal basis for the planned elections.