Mogadishu, Somalia – Officials from the HirShabelle State of Somalia have fiercely rejected recent allegations made by federal State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ali Omar, describing them as “politically motivated” and aimed at manipulating the ongoing indirect elections in Middle Shabelle region.
In a strongly worded statement on Monday, HirShabelle authorities accused Omar of making “baseless” claims to discredit the regional leadership, particularly President Ali Gudlawe Hussein.
They alleged that the minister has been involved in “clandestine efforts to pressure” President Gudlawe into installing his preferred candidate as the commissioner for Balcad district during Sunday’s indirect electoral process.
“This is a clear case of political interference,” said a senior HirShabelle official who requested anonymity.
“Instead of supporting the democratic process, Ali Omar is attempting to exert undue influence to secure positions for his allies,” added the official.
The response follows a public post by the State Minister on Sunday in which he criticized President Gudlawe for overseeing what he termed “expired-term indirect elections,” warning that such actions undermine national agreements and preparations for a more inclusive and credible electoral process.
HirShabelle officials defended their decision to proceed with the district-level selection, citing legal procedures and the need to fill administrative gaps in strategic areas like Balcad, a key town in the Middle Shabelle region with political and economic significance.
Observers say the escalating tensions between federal and state actors highlight the ongoing friction surrounding Somalia’s complex federal structure and the challenges of implementing inclusive, transparent elections.
Neither Omar nor President Gudlawe has made further public comments since the accusations and counteraccusations began. However, analysts warn that without urgent mediation, such disputes risk undermining progress made toward national reconciliation and electoral reforms ahead of the next round of federal elections.