Somalia's opposition coalition picks former President as chairman

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MOGADISHU, Somalia - A battle of titans is looming in Mogadishu following the latest all-inclusive alliance that brings together six major opposition parties, Garowe Online reports.

On Wednesday, the Forum for National Parties (FNP) unveiled former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed of Himilo party as the chairman, an indication that he could run against President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo.

UPD led by former President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is part of the new alliance. This is the first time two former Presidents are forming a coalition ahead of polls.

Currently, Somalia's parliament is moving around all states to craft an 'agreeable' election law that will be put into use when the Horn of Africa nation goes for everything next year.

Parliamentary elections shall be held in 2020 November when the tenure of the current parliament expires. They will be followed by the presidential polls.

Should the status quo remain, MPs shall elect the president. There is a general feeling that the country should embrace 'one man one vote' system which is widely used in presidential systems.

Sheikh Mohamud has been critical of Farmajo's regime, with their recent standoff manifested during the controversial inauguration of Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe.

"We call upon the government to lift sanctions imposed on Jubaland. The humanitarian crisis is dire and needs to be addressed immediately," he had said.

Farmajo has rejected the legitimacy of Madobe, accusing Kenya of orchestrating his victory. Madobe called for dialogue a fortnight ago during his inauguration.

Last week, Mohamud also alleged that there are plans by Farmajo to negotiate with Kenya over the Indian Ocean maritime dispute.

He said: "The country should be told about the outcome of the ICJ on the maritime dispute. Is someone planning to negotiate? We demand answers."

Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta has been pushing for out of court settlement. However, at the UN General Assembly in September, Farmajo insisted that Somalia is 'comfortable with court process'.

International Court of Justice pushed the case to June 2020. During the ruling, the court further said it will not accept any postponement application by Kenya.

The alliance by the opposition, Nation journalist Nyambega Gisesa says, could effectively end Farmajo's reign unceremoniously.

"This is a formidable force. Given than the two had served as Presidents, they command huge following," he said, adding that Farmajo should embrace reconciliation.

Over the years, Farmajo has been accused of being a 'divisive' figure, a trait manifested in his approach towards Jubaland electoral dispute and relationship with Kenya.

GAROWE ONLINE

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