Somali Affairs
Members of parliament accuse President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of violating the country's constitution
February 24, 2025
10
Min
Somalia is facing yet another political crisis as opposition groups, regional leaders, and members of parliament accuse President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of violating the country's constitution. These accusations have fueled tensions between the federal government and regional states, with some factions warning of parallel elections and even impeachment proceedings. Multiple sources have reported on different aspects of this unfolding situation, highlighting varying perspectives on the crisis.
Some sources suggest that a coalition of opposition parties and civil society groups has accused President Mohamud of overstepping constitutional boundaries. One of the primary concerns raised is his alleged appointment of an illegitimate electoral commission, bypassing established procedures. Additionally, the government has been criticized for imposing unjust taxes on businesses in the Banadir region, leading to economic difficulties and widespread dissatisfaction among the public.
Opposition leaders have warned that if the federal government moves forward with elections without ensuring a fair and inclusive process, they will organize their own parallel elections. This could further fragment Somalia's fragile political landscape, which has struggled with governance issues for decades.
While some reports focus on opposition accusations, others highlight the growing movement within Somalia’s parliament to impeach both President Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre. More than 200 MPs have signed an impeachment motion, citing constitutional violations, corruption, and human rights abuses.
The impeachment process has created a parliamentary deadlock, preventing crucial legislative activities from moving forward. Additionally, some regional states have reportedly endorsed the impeachment motion, further demonstrating the widening rift between the federal government and state administrations.
Some sources focus on the escalating tensions between the federal government and regional state leaders. Reports indicate that President Mohamud’s controversial constitutional changes have led to legal confrontations, with both federal and regional courts issuing arrest warrants for each other's leaders.
Moreover, there are warnings of an increasing risk of armed conflict, as rival factions are mobilizing troops in regions like Lower Juba and Gedo. This military buildup poses a significant threat to stability, as any violent confrontation could undermine Somalia’s long-standing efforts to maintain security and governance.
Different sources have taken distinct angles in covering Somalia’s political crisis:
These differing perspectives paint a complex picture of Somalia’s current political turmoil, showing that the crisis is not limited to one issue but is a result of multiple, interlinked challenges.
With accusations flying from all sides, Somalia’s political stability hangs in the balance. If opposition groups proceed with parallel elections, the legitimacy of the government could be further undermined. If parliament moves forward with impeachment proceedings, Somalia may face yet another leadership crisis. Meanwhile, the threat of armed conflict between federal and regional forces adds another layer of uncertainty.
As these developments unfold, the Somali people remain caught in the middle, hoping for a resolution that will bring political stability, economic relief, and governance reforms. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Somalia can navigate this crisis peacefully or if deeper divisions will lead to further instability.
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