Mogadishu, Somalia – Former Somali Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke has voiced deep concern over the growing influence of federal member states in shaping the upcoming parliamentary elections, warning that allowing regional leaders to steer the process could deepen Somalia’s political instability.
Sharmarke, who has played a central role in several of Somalia’s past political transitions, said the system used in previous elections—where regional states managed the selection of federal lawmakers through State Electoral Implementation Teams (SEITs)—had enabled political manipulation and entrenched personal interests. He argued that repeating the same model would risk compromising the legitimacy of the next federal parliament.
Instead, the former premier urged the federal government to establish an impartial and nationally recognized committee to manage the electoral process. He emphasized that such a mechanism would help restore public confidence and ensure that the elections reflect the will of the Somali people rather than the preferences of political elites.
His remarks come as Somalia prepares for another crucial round of elections amid renewed debates on electoral reforms. Many Somalis, weary of prolonged disputes and recurring controversies surrounding past polls, are calling for a more transparent and credible system that moves closer to universal suffrage.
Sharmarke’s warning underscores a broader concern within Somalia’s political circles—how to balance federalism with fairness in representation. As the nation stands on the cusp of another defining political moment, his call for independent oversight resonates with citizens yearning for stability and a genuine democratic process.