Farmaajo warns Somalia’s disputed election plan could trigger civil conflict

NAIROBI, Kenya, Oct 15— Former Somalia President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has cautioned that the country’s contentious electoral plan could deepen tensions and lead to civil unrest, urging all political factions to reach an agreement on inclusive elections involving the federal government, regional states, and opposition parties.

The electoral commission’s announcement of a schedule for parliamentary elections on April 15, 2027, and a presidential poll on May 15, 2027, has sparked objections from political leaders who contend the process lacks widespread consensus. Farmaajo, in a statement released on Thursday, denounced the "unilateral decision by a one-sided electoral commission" and accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s government of proceeding with elections without the consent of federal member states and opposition leaders.

He emphasized that the electoral process initiated by Mohamud, whose term ended in May 2026, poses a significant threat to Somalia's sovereignty and future. Farmaajo emphasized the necessity of open dialogue among political stakeholders, stating that Somalia’s political destiny cannot be dictated by unilateral actions. He advocated for a consensus on free and fair elections involving all stakeholders.

The dispute revolves around constitutional amendments that altered presidential and parliamentary terms from four to five years. Mohamud’s administration asserts that these amendments permit the president to remain in office until May 2027, whereas Farmaajo and other opposition figures argue his original tenure ended in May 2026.

Farmaajo accused the government of moving forward without political consensus, warning that competing electoral processes could emerge and heighten the risk of additional instability. He also claimed the administration had violated constitutional principles and aimed to concentrate power. Farmaajo implored Somalia’s political leaders, including former national officials, senior officials, and heads of federal member states, to unite behind a transparent and inclusive electoral process.

He also called upon international partners to continue mediation efforts and assist the nation in resolving the dispute through dialogue. The election dispute coincides with broader tensions between the federal government and opposition groups regarding constitutional changes and the shift to direct elections. The government defends the new electoral framework as part of its objective to establish a system where citizens directly elect their representatives, whereas critics argue the process necessitates broader political agreement.

The government has stated it remains open to negotiations alongside preparations for the scheduled elections, arguing that both efforts can progress simultaneously. Farmaajo, who held the presidency from 2017 to 2022, underscored the need for political stakeholders to reach an agreement to prevent the electoral dispute from endangering national unity and Somalia’s future.