Onkod Radio (Mogadishu) The political situation in Somalia appears to have entered a period of transition and uncertainty after both the Somali Parliament and the Presidency extended their terms by one year.
This tension has been growing day by day, but yesterday’s heated exchanges between leaders of the Federal Government, the opposition, and the Presidents of Galmudug and Jubbaland made it clear that such rhetoric will only worsen the situation rather than produce a lasting and mutually agreed solution, particularly regarding the federal and Galmudug elections.
If we look at the elections held in Baidoa, whose outcome still remains unclear, together with the insecurity in the city, especially the looting of civilians and the armed rebellion that emerged after the government took control of the city by force, it is evident that this is a dangerous sign. It could encourage rebellion among other regional administrations dissatisfied with the Villa Somalia government in Mogadishu.
The opposition, who continue to hold press conferences daily, and the youth in Mogadishu protesting against the extension and organizing anti-government demonstrations, along with the continued arrests of these young people, do not appear to signal victory for the government.
The government’s seizure of land, carried out recklessly and without regard for the people affected, has only fueled growing anger and unrest in Mogadishu.
In addition, the drought affecting the country, caused by the lack of rainfall, has led herders to lose their livestock and forced farmers to abandon their fields.
Proposed Solution:
The government must restore its credibility and dignity by returning seized land to its rightful owners or providing equivalent housing, so that the tense situation in Mogadishu can be contained.
The government must engage in dialogue with the opposition and establish a mutually agreed framework regarding the format and timing of the elections.
The government must also resolve the rebellion that emerged after the forced removal from office, because addressing that conflict is essential to the government’s success. Failure to do so could encourage wider rebellion across different regions.
Finally, the government must find lasting solutions for people displaced by the drought and support their return to their farms so they can resume cultivation. Humanitarian aid alone is not a long-term solution.
BY: Editor-in-Chief