Opposition politicians, led by former Transitional Federal Government President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, launched a major political conference today in Mogadishu. The gathering is focused on analyzing the country’s political situation, particularly the upcoming elections and constitutional amendments. Early discussions have already produced strong criticism directed at President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration.
The conference, attended by prominent opposition figures, harshly criticized the Federal Government’s handling of the election process. Speeches delivered at the event directly accused the government of pushing forward with the elections and constitutional reforms in a manner favoring a single political party, which the opposition argues undermines democratic inclusivity.
Opening the conference, Sharif Sheikh Ahmed stated that the country was heading in an “unacceptable and incorrect direction,” issuing strong accusations against the current leadership. He criticized the administration for mishandling the political process and abandoning the tradition of national dialogue and compromise.
He also firmly rejected the establishment of the National Electoral Commission, labeling it as an illegitimate body selected unlawfully and in violation of the constitution. “It’s a commission formed by a clique, and it is unacceptable,” he declared.
Additional criticisms included allegations that citizens are being forcibly registered for the elections. “People are being registered by force, universities have raised complaints. An election conducted under coercion is not a legitimate election,” Sharif added.
Notably absent from the conference were former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and the leaders of the Puntland and Jubbaland regional states, despite their strong opposition to the current administration. Other attendees included MPs, politicians, and former prime ministers, many of whom gave speeches denouncing the president and his governance approach.
With just one year left in his term, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud faces growing opposition, which has pledged to maintain firm resistance. They accused him of leading the country down a dangerous and undemocratic path, warning that a politically inclusive and acceptable election is currently not feasible.
The conference is expected to continue for several days, concluding with an official communiqué.
— HBN ONLINE TV