MOGADISH – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was elected on Tuesday night as chairman and presidential candidate (Kadda Aradda Iyo Wadajilka) of the newly formed political party, justice and solidarity.
In a speech at a party launch event held in Mogadishu, the president launched a scathing attack on leaders of several federal member states, accusing them of hampering the progress of the people and acting against the interests of the Somali people.
“Anyone who opposes the interests of the Somali state is the enemy of peace and development,” declared Mohamud, selecting the leaders of Pantoland and Jubaland.
The president’s remarks continue to escalate political tensions between Villa Somalia and the leaders of Pantoland and Jubaland. Both regional administrations have rejected recent constitutional reforms and the federal approach to future elections, raising concerns that they will deepen rifts within the fragile federal system.
The newly announced Party of Justice and Solidarity is strongly supported by President Mohamud’s loyalty and is widely viewed as a strategic platform for consolidating political power ahead of the 2026 election. The move has sparked concern among opposition figures who accused the president of trying to entrench one-party rule.
Critics also point out that the current Election Commission chair (formerly served as his campaign manager in the 2022 election) has been appointed as evidence of creeping authoritarianism.
The evolving political situation in Somalia remains extremely unstable, with both domestic and international observers closely monitoring the situation. Many warn that unless comprehensive dialogue and political consensus are prioritized, countries risk even more instability ahead of the next election cycle.
