Somalia opposition scores own goal over Galmudug election

MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s opposition has come under scrutiny after several of its prominent figures congratulated Liban Ahmed Hassan on his election as leaderof Galmudug state, despite having long opposed similar electoral processes conducted under the federal government.

Former Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble was among the opposition figures who congratulated Liban and welcomed his election, in a move that has drawn criticism over the opposition’s consistency on electoral matters.

The development comes amid escalating tensions between the opposition and the federal government, with the two sides at odds over the country’s electoral process.

Opposition leaders have previously denounced similar elections held in Banadir region and South West State by the Mogadishu-based administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud through the same electoral body. Their decision to welcome the Galmudug election has therefore raised questions about the apparent discrepancy between their previous objections and their current position.

Analysts have described the move as a political own goal, arguing that it could undermine the opposition’s credibility and weaken its efforts to challenge President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s push for an electoral process that could secure his re-election.

The perceived inconsistency could present a significant challenge for opposition leaders as they seek to build a coherent position against the president’s electoral agenda.

Contact us: [email protected]