The Dispute Over Somalia's Elections is Escalating and the Opposition Accuses the Government of Disrupting Dialogue

The political conflict in Somalia regarding the electoral process is intensifying, after the National Electoral Commission announced the election schedule, a move that has been met with opposition from the opposition and some other politicians, who have called for a political agreement to be reached first on how the elections in the country will be conducted.

The opposition has accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of obstructing the political discussions regarding the electoral process, warning that if a consensus is not reached on this matter, it could lead to an extension of the term and elections that the parties are not satisfied with.

The former President of the Country, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, stated that the recent talks between the President and the halt in discussions between the Federal Government and the opposition indicate that a political concession to resolve the ongoing conflict has not yet been achieved.

The opposition has also expressed concern over amendments to the constitution and the election plan, arguing that these actions could strengthen the power of the ruling party. They called on the government to return to the negotiating table, with the participation of the opposition and regional governments, to establish an agreed electoral process.

The position of the opposition aligns with the concerns expressed by some opposition politicians and members of various parties in the country, who have opposed the election schedule announced by the commission.

The opposition has accused the government of pursuing an election plan that has not been fully agreed upon with the political parties, arguing that decisions related to the election and constitutional amendments require broad consultation.

Some politicians have also issued statements expressing their rejection and the need to reopen negotiations.

On the other hand, the Federal Government of Somalia insists on its plan for implementing one-person, one-vote elections, arguing that this system provides citizens the opportunity to directly elect their leaders.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has also discussed the organization of the election with members of the Justice and Development Party (JSP), as the government continues its efforts related to implementing its political agenda.

However, the differences in opinion between the government and the opposition still revolve around the election process, the announced timetable, constitutional amendments, and the need for a political agreement that both sides can accept.