Somalia has entered a dangerous and uncertain political moment following the end of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s constitutional term on 15 May.
The President argues that constitutional amendments extended the mandate of federal institutions to five years, while many opposition groups and other stakeholders do not accept this interpretation.
The country has unfortunately entered uncharted territory and there is urgent need for dialogue, restraint, and compromise in order to avoid instability or confrontation.
In the spirit of supporting a peaceful Somali-led solution, I have compiled the following 10 points proposal for consideration:
1. The Federal Government and opposition stakeholders should agree on the appointment of an independent Prime Minister who will not participate in the next presidential election.
3. The Prime Minister should form an inclusive government tasked with managing state affairs and preparing the country for elections through broad political consultation and consensus.
4. An independent electoral committee should be established in agreement with all major stakeholders in order to prepare for voter registration and nationwide elections.
5. Somalia should move toward direct elections based on one person, one vote, with the necessary political, legal, and security preparations agreed collectively.
6. A mutually agreed electoral timetable should be established and implemented transparently.
7. Following parliamentary elections, a new Federal Parliament should elect the President in accordance with the constitutional process.
8. The newly elected institutions should continue work on completing and finalizing the constitution through broad national consultation and consensus.
9. All sides should avoid unilateral actions, inflammatory rhetoric, or any steps that could increase tensions or undermine national stability.
10. Somalia’s friends and international partners should encourage dialogue, compromise, constitutional order, and a peaceful Somali-owned political settlement.
Somalia has made important progress over the past two decades despite enormous challenges. This progress must be protected through wisdom, compromise, and inclusive politics.
Dr: C. Kani Torun, former Türkiye ambassador to Somalia.
