Several candidates who were expected to vie in the upcoming presidential elections in HirShabelle have quietly withdrawn from the race.
Consequently, unconfirmed reports show that the elections could be postponed.
Reportedly, the candidates believe that the elections are skewed heavily in favor of Ali Guudlaawe, who enjoys the backing of Villa Somalia.
According to insiders, the other candidates do not want to take part in what they call “flawed elections with a pre-determined winner.”
Sources informed the media that the Federal Government of Somalia is ready to do anything to ensure that Guudlaawe emerges victorious.
Guudlaawe is the current Deputy President of HirShabelle State.
His boss, President Mohamed Abdi Waare, resigned from the presidency last week claiming betrayal from Mogadishu.