The opposition remains firm: Somalia’s Political Crisis Enters Dangerous New Phase

Mogadishu (WDN)- Former President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, whose constitutional term has expired, appears to have reverted to a familiar political playbook: dispatching emissaries to engage the opposition while showing little willingness to compromise on the issues at the heart of Somalia’s political crisis.

Opposition figures argue that Hassan Sheikh’s approach has remained unchanged throughout the standoff. While publicly calling for dialogue, they contend that his position has consistently been that others must concede accepting his term extension, the constitutional changes he championed, and the electoral framework and election commission established under his administration.

Critics describe a leader unwilling to make the concessions necessary to break the political deadlock. They point to several previous rounds of talks with opposition leaders, as well as separate mediation efforts involving Somali elders and influential members of the Abgaal community, all of which reportedly ended without tangible results. Those who participated in the discussions have frequently complained that negotiations with Hassan Sheikh yielded little progress, describing him as deeply resistant to compromise.

According to sources, a delegation reportedly sent from Villa Somalia arrived at the residence of former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed in Muqdisho’s Marina neighborhood in an effort to ease mounting tensions. The delegation was led by Mudulood traditional elder Ugaas Mahmoud Ali Ugaas and included several known political intermediaries who have often played mediation roles during periods of national crisis. Among those reportedly involved were MP Yusuf Geele Ugaas and Cabdi Axmed Dhuxulow (Dhagdheer).