‘I Will Never Run Against Him’: Somalia’s PM Affirms Loyalty to President Ahead of Polls  

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has ruled out the possibility of running against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in an election, signalling their close partnership, a rare collaboration between the country's top leadership.

Previously, the country had experienced frosty relationships between the premiers and the heads of state, with the most recent being the fallout between President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, alias Farmajo and his former PMs led by Mohamed Roble and Hassan Ali Khaire.

However, ahead of the General elections and in a strong commitment, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre stated that he will remain loyal and cooperative with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. For the three years, the two have not been embroiled in wrangles..

"I will never run for president against President [Hassan Sheikh Mohamud], who entrusted me to serve Somalia as PM," he said. "As long as he's in the race, I won't challenge him. What happens if he steps aside - I don't know," added PM Hamza Abdi Barre.

The PM was touring the Aden Adde International Airport to inspect its capacity and functionality. He raised concerns about the general hygiene in the airport and the surroundings, while putting management on its toes.

“I came here because of public outcry. What citizens described is visible here. I don’t know how the director and the minister remain in charge when conditions are like this,” he said during the inspection.

"The airport’s facilities must suit Somali culture and needs. People should not suffer here. All the toilets must be rebuilt,” he said, promising to revisit the site within a week.

The country is set for elections sometime next year, but the political class is embroiled in wrangles over the change of electoral law. The government supports direct elections, while the opposition disputes, arguing that the country is not ready and therefore should embrace indirect polls.

GAROWE ONLINE