Opposition Accuses Somali President of Shredding Constitution, Warns of Parallel Elections

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has yet again been accused of mutilation of constitutional orders in the Horn of Africa nation, potentially pitting yet another political tussle in the country, which is struggling with instability.

The coalition of opposition parties and civil society groups said Hassan Sheikh had overstretched constitutional limits, adding that his outright disrespect for constitutional order could plunge the country into chaos and disorder.

They added that Mohamud has sidelined the federal structure, disregarding the provisions meant to safeguard national unity and governmental accountability. These violations have threatened national unity and sovereignty.

“The president has turned the constitutional framework into a mere formality,” the statement read. “His actions violate Article 1, Clause 3, which guarantees Somalia’s unity and sovereignty, and Article 3, Clause 3, which mandates national cohesion.”

Opposition leaders stated that the appointment process ignored constitutional guidelines outlined in Articles 111E and 111G regarding the appointment of the electoral commission, which they add lacks a legal framework and backup.

Further, the team raised concerns about what they termed as unjustified taxation targeting businesses in Banadir, noting that the unfair policies have led to the closure of businesses in the country as Mogadishu insists on compliance.

“The illegal taxation imposed on traders has crippled businesses, leading to widespread job losses and economic distress,” the statement declared. The government, they said, had granted Mohamud’s associates financial advantages, fueling inequalities in the country.

With national elections looming, the opposition issued a stark warning: If the government proceeds with a one-sided electoral process, they will organize their elections.

“We will not participate in a manipulated election that benefits only one side,” said a senior official at the conference. “The Somali people must reject the erosion of democracy and any attempts to weaken our constitutional system,” the statement read.

Hassan Sheikh has been at loggerheads with various regional leaders over constitutional changes and federal structure, leading to protracted political tussles in the country. The government of Somalia rarely commits development funds to federal states.

GAROWE ONLINE