Somalia: Opposition Accuses President Hassan Sheikh of "Authoritarianism"

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has issued a strong criticism of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, accusing him of practising "authoritarianism" and sidelining the powers of the Parliament, Cabinet, and Judiciary.

Speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu on Tuesday, which was also attended by opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur, Sheikh Sharif warned that President Hassan Sheikh’s actions could plunge the country back into instability. He emphasized the dangers of concentrating power in the president's hands and called for an inclusive approach to governance.

Sheikh Sharif urged political stakeholders to engage in dialogue to establish an electoral system that is inclusive and represents all political actors. He cautioned against the risk of conflict and division if the system is manipulated to serve individual interests.

His remarks come after President Hassan Sheikh introduced amendments to certain provisions of the Provisional Constitution and unilaterally appointed an electoral commission without consulting the opposition or federal member states. Sheikh Sharif described these actions as violations of Somalia’s laws.

Meanwhile, the controversial National Electoral and Boundary Commission said it is working to implement a one-person, one-vote electoral system in Somalia. However, significant disagreements persist among the stakeholders with the Federal Government at loggerheads with the Puntland and Jubbaland states over the national issues.

Sheikh Sharif concluded his remarks by urging Somali government leaders to return to negotiations to safeguard the country’s governance structure and national unity. The accusation comes as the four-year mandate of the current Somali government is ending in 15 months with the country facing its worst political division.

GAROWE ONLINE