Deep Divisions Threaten Somalia as 2026 Elections Near

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Divisions continue to spiral in Somalia ahead of the 2026 elections, with the federal government pushing for implementation of constitutional changes against the wishes of the opposition leadership and some federal states.

At the top of the disagreement is the electoral model, with the government insisting on universal suffrage. However, the opposition believes the country is not stable enough to handle direct elections, arguing that the model would spark unprecedented term extensions.

Sources say that Puntland, Jubaland, and the opposition Alliance have formed a coalition aimed at putting pressure on President Hassan Sheikh to hold timely, free and fair elections in 2026, signalling possible divisions.

According to the report, plans are currently underway to prevent the current president from hijacking the electoral system for the parliamentary elections and changing the points in the constitution that pave the way for his interests to remain in power. 

Political observers note that Somalia is on the brink of a parallel government emerging ahead of the 2026 elections. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud insists on direct elections despite the fact that there is no consensus over his decisions.

The coordinated steps by Puntland, Jubaland, and opposition allies indicate a deliberate effort to counteract the plans of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s federal administration in Mogadishu, potentially escalating the country’s deepening political divisions.

GAROWE ONLINE