Mogadishu, Somalia – On Tuesday evening, a crucial opposition meeting commenced in the Somali capital as political tensions continue over the nation’s electoral process, according to Garowe Online’s correspondent.
The event, held at Jazeera Hotel and attended by leaders of the Somali opposition coalition known as the Madasha Samatabixinta Soomaaliyeed, centered on concerns regarding the federal government’s management of upcoming elections and the electoral framework.
Attendees comprised opposition politicians, civil society representatives, business leaders, women’s groups, and internally displaced individuals affiliated with the coalition. Organizers stated the forum intends to gather public perspectives prior to a wider opposition conference scheduled in Kismayo.
Former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire addressed the gathering, asserting that Somalia lacks the security and institutional capacity necessary to implement one-person, one-vote elections within the current administration’s remaining timeframe.
He accused the federal government of proceeding without political consensus and contravening constitutional provisions concerning the electoral schedule.
One person, one-vote elections represent a national objective demanding comprehensive preparation and dedicated effort, yet the country’s leaders have transformed it into a strategy to rationalize an unacceptable term extension, stated ex-Prime Minister Khaire.
Somalia has endured persistent political disagreements between authorities and opposition factions regarding election models, constitutional interpretation, and governance, sparking concerns about postponements and instability before the next electoral period.
