Somali president calls for shift to two-party political system

DHUSAMAREB, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said Wednesday that Somalia must move toward a two-party political system to end years of fragmented politics and build long-term national stability.

Speaking during an event in Dhusamareb, the capital of Galmudug state, Mohamud criticized the current political landscape as being driven by personalities and short-term interests rather than clear ideological platforms. He said the country needs structured political competition based on principles, not individuals.

“We must move away from politics centered on individuals,” Mohamud said. “Only political parties with clear visions and ideologies can deliver real progress and reform.”

His remarks follow failed negotiations with opposition leaders over the country’s future political framework. The president argued that the lack of a unified political vision among the opposition is hindering progress on key national priorities, including finalizing the constitution and implementing one-person, one-vote elections.

Mohamud, who returned to power in 2022, has repeatedly emphasized the need to complete the long-delayed constitutional process and reduce reliance on clan-based politics, which has dominated Somali governance for decades.

The leaders in Puntland and Jubbaland, along with the opposition bloc known as the Somali Salvation Forum, have rejected the federal government's proposed electoral roadmap, accusing it of lacking consensus and favoring central authority.

Despite the political standoff, Mohamud insisted that a shift toward institutionalized party politics is essential for Somalia's democratic future.

GAROWE ONLINE