Mogadishu, Somalia – Mogadishu is bracing for the return of Somalia’s former President, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, who is expected to re-enter the political arena as he gears up for the 2026 elections. Farmaajo, who served as the nation’s ninth president from 2017 to 2022, is widely remembered for his nationalist rhetoric and efforts to centralize government authority amid Somalia’s complex federal system.
During his tenure, Farmaajo oversaw both economic reforms and security operations, but also faced criticism for political tensions with federal states and institutional challenges within the Somali government. His presidency ended peacefully when he handed over power to the current administration following the election, marking one of the few smooth transitions of power in the country’s recent history.
Political observers say his return signals a renewed push for influence in a landscape increasingly defined by youth activism, clan dynamics, and a more assertive civil society. Farmaajo’s campaign is expected to focus on national unity, economic recovery, and security, aiming to reconnect with voters who supported his earlier vision for Somalia’s future.
As Somalia prepares for the next electoral cycle, Farmaajo’s reemergence adds a new layer of intensity to an already competitive political environment. Citizens and political analysts alike are closely watching to see how his experience and political legacy will resonate with a population navigating ongoing challenges of governance, security, and development.
His arrival in Mogadishu will likely set the stage for rallies, consultations with key political actors, and strategic announcements that could shape the tone of the 2026 elections. The coming months promise a significant test of Farmaajo’s enduring political appeal and Somalia’s evolving democratic process.