### The Somali electoral dilemma: towards a new political era?
In a recent interview with Fatshimetrie, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said that he had not yet made a decision on his candidacy for re -election in 2026. This declaration, revealing nuances of Somali political dynamics, raises a series of questions about the future of the country, which is going through a period still marked by complex challenges, but also by notable advances.
Since his return to power in 2022, Mohamud has put forward security progress in Mogadishu, as well as economic growth which he considers as successful indicators of his governance. The president has set an ambitious calendar, with local elections scheduled for June 2025 and national elections by September, hoping to move away from the traditional electoral system based on clans, often criticized for its drifts and inequalities.
### The political context: a fragile transition
Membership of a more direct electoral process represents a potentially significant turning point for Somalia, affected for decades by internal conflicts and a lack of stability. However, this journey towards direct suffrage is not without complications. Several opposition figures, including those in the autonomous regions of Puntland and Jubbaland, express concerns concerning the respect of electoral deadlines as well as potential violations of the Constitution. These concerns deserve to be examined, because they underline the fragility of political unity and the existing distrust between the federal government and the regional entities.
It is essential to wonder to what extent Mohamud’s reform promises can actually be implemented in an environment where disinformation and rivalries between clans remain omnipresent. Somali history is strewn with examples where ambitious reforms have failed due to internal struggles and fierce opposition. How can the president navigate this complexity while maintaining the legitimacy of his administration?
## economic and social challenges
In parallel with political issues, economic development and safety of security are inextricably linked to national stability. Mohamud has mentioned his priority to strengthen the country’s economy, often considered one of the nation’s weak links. The integration of more young people in the formal economy, the fight against unemployment and support for sectors such as agriculture and fishing are essential not only for prosperity, but also for social peace.
However, the question of the sustainability of this economic growth in the context of challenges such as recurring droughts, the instability of the supply chain and persistent insecurity raises questions. How can the government ensure that the benefits of growth recovered by an elite do not dig the gap between the different strata of society any more?
### A look to the future
While President Mohamud continues to weigh his options as 2026 approaches, he must balance the growing expectations of the population with the reality of governance in a complex environment. Its promise of national reforms must be accompanied by an open dialogue with the opposition and significant commitments to robust democratic practices.
The transition to direct elections represents a historical opportunity that could redefine the Somali political landscape, but it will depend on the government’s ability to establish a climate of trust. Reflections on multipartite dialogue mechanisms and actual inclusion platforms for all regions and interest groups could be tracks to explore to avoid future tensions.
In the end, while the president takes the time to think about his candidacy, this space for reflection could also be used to bring together the various voices of the country for a future which, we hope, is marked by more stability, security and prosperity for all Somalians.