Somali opposition leaders meet in Mogadishu to discuss alternative electoral model

MOGADISHU — Somali opposition leaders have gathered in Mogadishu to discuss a proposed indirect voting system, signaling a shift away from both the 2022 electoral arrangement and the “one person, one vote” model backed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

According to sources familiar with the talks, the opposition aims to consolidate a compromise electoral framework that could be presented to international mediators engaged in ongoing efforts to broker a consensus among Somali political stakeholders.

The discussions come as external partners intensify pressure on Somali leaders to agree on a clear electoral roadmap before the presidential mandate expires on May 15.

The proposed model reflects growing concern among opposition figures over the feasibility of holding universal suffrage elections in the near term, as well as dissatisfaction with the clan-based indirect system used in 2022.

Sources said the opposition is seeking a middle-ground arrangement that could gain broader political acceptance and avert a potential constitutional or political crisis.

There has been no immediate response from the federal government. President Mohamud has previously reiterated his support for transitioning Somalia to a one-person, one-vote electoral system, describing it as essential for democratic progress.

GAROWE ONLINE