Mogadishu – Presidential candidate and former Somali Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire has delivered a scathing critique of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration, accusing it of stifling economic growth and failing the country’s youth.
In remarks shared on social media, Khaire said the government is “crippling businesses” and driving away investors through “punitive taxes,” which he claims are exacerbating economic hardship. He also cited what he called “governance failures” that are leaving young Somalis with few options, forcing many into dangerous migration routes in a desperate search for better opportunities abroad.
“The government’s lack of economic vision is scaring off investment and destroying job prospects,” Khaire warned, adding that a generation is being “pushed into despair.”
His comments come as Somalia faces mounting challenges, including high youth unemployment, inflation, and continued insecurity, all of which have contributed to a surge in irregular migration.
The President’s office has not yet responded to Khaire’s criticisms.