Sunday February 16, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — A coalition of Somali opposition parties and civil society groups has accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of constitutional overreach and economic mismanagement, calling his administration’s policies a threat to the country’s stability.
The accusations, detailed in a statement following a two-day conference in Mogadishu, claim Mohamud has repeatedly violated Somalia’s Provisional Constitution by consolidating power, undermining independent institutions, and imposing unlawful financial policies.
In a strongly worded statement, the opposition coalition charged that Mohamud’s administration had sidelined Somalia’s federal structure, disregarding provisions meant to safeguard national unity and governmental accountability.
“The president has turned the constitutional framework into a mere formality,” the statement read. “His actions violate Article 1, Clause 3, which guarantees Somalia’s unity and sovereignty, and Article 3, Clause 3, which mandates national cohesion.”
They further alleged that Mohamud had circumvented legal procedures to appoint an electoral commission that lacks legitimacy. “The appointment process ignored constitutional guidelines outlined in Articles 111E and 111G,” opposition leaders stated.
Beyond political concerns, the opposition cited the administration’s handling of the economy as a key grievance. Business leaders in Banadir have protested against what they call “unjustified taxation,” which they claim has contributed to the closure of Mogadishu’s largest commercial hub, Bakara Market.
“The illegal taxation imposed on traders has crippled businesses, leading to widespread job losses and economic distress,” the statement declared.
Additionally, opposition leaders accused the government of granting financial advantages to businesses linked to Mohamud’s close allies, further exacerbating economic inequality.
With national elections looming, the opposition issued a stark warning: If the government proceeds with a one-sided electoral process, they will organize their own elections.
“We will not participate in a manipulated election that benefits only one side,” said a senior official at the conference.
The opposition also criticized the government’s handling of security agencies, accusing it of using state forces for political purposes instead of ensuring national stability.
The conference concluded with a call for Somali citizens, civil society groups, and regional administrations to resist what opposition figures described as a drift toward authoritarian rule.
“The Somali people must reject the erosion of democracy and any attempts to weaken our constitutional system,” the statement urged.
