Somalia Must Reject Recycled Leaders and Embrace the People’s Vote
Somalia stands at a crossroads. For decades, the country has been ensnared in a cycle of recycled leadership, wherein the same political figures return to power, clinging to their positions through indirect means rather than popular legitimacy. These former presidents, prime ministers, ministers, and parliamentary speakers do not offer a new vision; instead, they safeguard outdated privileges.
To understand the significance of rejecting recycled leaders, we must first explore the profound effects of political stagnation on Somali society. For many, leadership has become synonymous with betrayal, as citizens witness the same individuals re-entering politics without accountability. This cycle not only erodes public trust but also stifles the potential for new ideas and fresh perspectives that are essential for national progress.
The clan-based electoral system has perpetuated a narrow political elite that prioritises self-interest over the collective good. This has resulted in policies that benefit only a select few while the majority of the population remains disenfranchised and marginalized. A comprehensive examination of this system reveals its detrimental impact: it undermines the principles of equality and fairness that are fundamental to any democracy.
The political crisis of 2021 serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of recycled leadership. During this tumultuous period, citizens were acutely aware of the stakes involved. Many took to the streets, demanding accountability and transparency, showcasing the power of civic engagement. It is crucial to acknowledge the role of grassroots movements in pushing back against attempts to manipulate the democratic process, which highlights the need for an informed and active electorate.
The cyclical nature of political crises often leads to a sense of disillusionment among citizens. This disillusionment can manifest in voter apathy, further entrenching the very leaders who have failed to deliver on their promises. To break this cycle, it is essential for Somalia to foster a political environment that prioritises accountability and genuine representation, thus empowering the electorate.
The maritime sovereignty issue exemplifies the high stakes involved in leadership decisions. The repercussions of the 2009 agreement were not just legal; they symbolised a loss of national pride and autonomy. For a country like Somalia, rebuilding trust and reclaiming its narrative is vital. This demands leaders who are not only accountable but who also possess a clear vision for the nation’s future, prioritising national interests over personal gain.
President Dr Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s approach to defending Somalia’s territorial waters showcases the potential for principled leadership. It highlights the importance of commitment to national sovereignty and the need for leaders who will engage with the international community while firmly standing up for Somalia’s rights. This approach is in stark contrast to those who prioritise political manoeuvring over genuine national interests.
The promises made during campaigns are critical touchstones for evaluating political leaders. When recycled leaders, who previously pledged to implement reforms, backtrack on their commitments, it raises questions about their integrity. A society that holds its leaders accountable for their promises cultivates a healthier political landscape, fostering an environment where citizens can reclaim their voice and influence over governance.
This contradiction among recycled leaders evokes a deep sense of betrayal among the populace. Many citizens feel trapped in a political landscape that fails to reflect their needs and aspirations. The challenge lies in mobilising public sentiment to demand accountability and transparency, thus ensuring that future leaders remain committed to their pledges and the democratic principles they profess to uphold.
The political elite’s reliance on outdated systems creates a façade of governance that lacks substance. Genuine political engagement requires addressing the root causes of dissatisfaction among the electorate. These leaders must evolve and embrace innovative approaches to governance that prioritise public welfare rather than entrenched interests.
Understanding the concept of ‘stakeholders’ in this context reveals an inherent contradiction. While the term suggests collaboration and inclusivity, the reality often reflects exclusion and elitism. The disconnect between these so-called stakeholders and the wider populace underscores the urgent need for political reform that re-establishes the link between leaders and citizens, fostering a culture of genuine representation.
As Mogadishu prepares for local elections, it is crucial to underscore the importance of civic engagement in shaping the future. Citizens must actively participate in the electoral process, ensuring their voices are heard and their choices reflected in the outcomes. This level of engagement is essential for cultivating a democratic culture that values participation and accountability.
The choice between recycled power and democratic legitimacy is not merely academic; it has tangible implications for the daily lives of Somali citizens. A shift towards democratic governance can unlock opportunities for economic development, social cohesion, and national pride. It is imperative for the Somali population to understand the stakes involved and to advocate for a future that reflects their aspirations.
The call for the people to take the lead is not just a rallying cry; it is a necessary step towards reclaiming agency over their own governance. Empowering citizens to demand accountability and reform will pave the way for a political landscape that prioritises the needs of the populace, thereby fostering a more resilient and equitable society.
One person, one vote is a fundamental principle that encapsulates the essence of democracy. It is the bedrock upon which a just and equitable society can be built, and it is imperative that all Somalis rally behind this principle to secure a brighter future.
The indirect electoral system, governed by clan delegates and backroom negotiations, has long been the gateway for this elite class. It has stripped the Somali people of their voice and enabled those who have failed in office to resurface, unchallenged and unaccountable.
Somalia’s Path to Genuine Leadership
In 2021, this dangerous cycle nearly shattered the country. Then-Speaker of Parliament Mohamed Mursal, alongside allies of President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, pushed through an unlawful term extension. This action plunged the nation into a political crisis and brought Mogadishu to the brink of armed conflict. Only overwhelming public pressure and international intervention managed to reverse the damage.
This wasn’t the first time recycled leadership brought Somalia to crisis.
In 2009, a Memorandum of Understanding signed with Kenya threatened Somalia’s maritime sovereignty. The agreement, signed by then-Minister Abdirahman Abdishakur and Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Sharmarke, provoked outrage. When questioned, then-President Sheikh Sharif Ahmed disclaimed all knowledge, passing responsibility to others. The country spent years and millions of dollars defending itself at the International Court of Justice.
President Dr Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took that case to court during his first term. He defended Somalia’s territorial waters when others had nearly signed them away.
Again, These figures attempt to derail the country’s only path forward: universal suffrage. However, what makes this moment even more damning is the memory of the 2022 presidential campaign. Each one of these recycled leaders stood on public platforms and pledged that if elected, they would implement one person, one vote and finalise the draft constitution.
Today, those very exact figures oppose both. The question is simple: were they lying then, or are they wrong now? Either they lacked sincerity in their pledges, or they now lack faith in the people they once sought to represent.
The so-called “rising political tensions” are not fuelled by principle or ideological disagreement. They are driven by politicians who rely on controlling an outdated electoral system. They lack any genuine vision for Somalia’s future. When asked for a development, justice, or governance roadmap, they provide nothing. When questioned about elections, they offer only indirect ones.
These politicians even refer to themselves as “stakeholders”, a self-appointed title with no constitutional basis or electoral mandate. Who elected these “stakeholders”? Who do they represent? They speak only for themselves. Their stake is not in the people; it is in the process that excludes the people.
But Somalia is changing. Mogadishu is more peaceful today than it has been in years. The city is preparing for historic local elections under a one-person, one-vote system, something the public supports and the constitution demands. And President Dr Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is delivering it as a policy and a principle.
This is no longer a debate between individuals; it is a choice between two futures: one of recycled power and indirect rule and another of democratic legitimacy and national dignity. Somalia must decide.
The carousel must stop. The false promises must come to an end.
The people must take the lead.
One person, one vote is not just a method. It is the moral core of Somalia’s future.
