Monday , May 25, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -Somali MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame has sharply criticized Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, accusing him of attempting to project strength and political control despite what he described as deepening internal instability, declining public trust, and growing political uncertainty.
In a strongly worded statement, Warsame claimed that the president, whose constitutional mandate he described as expired, is increasingly relying on private meetings with clan leaders in Mogadishu to seek support for what he called an “illegal one-year term extension,” while also expressing concern over the growing organization of opposition groups.
The lawmaker further alleged that even some of the president’s closest political allies have begun engaging with opposition figures and other Somali stakeholders after losing confidence in Hassan Sheikh’s ability to manage the country’s political transition and deliver on previously promised plans. According to Warsame, several allies are now urging the president to pursue an inclusive and broadly agreed electoral process.
Warsame also argued that tensions are no longer limited to the political opposition, but have spread into government institutions and the security sector. He pointed to alleged corruption, favoritism, nepotism, and unfair promotion practices within the armed forces, claiming that morale among officers and soldiers has deteriorated significantly.
According to the MP, mistrust is now growing both within the military ranks and between the president and sections of the security forces not aligned with his close allies, creating what he described as a “sensitive and dangerous situation.”
He additionally criticized ongoing political developments in South West State and Galmudug, arguing that efforts to manage elections with predetermined outcomes have intensified political tensions and weakened public confidence.
Warsame said the administration is increasingly concerned about the political awakening of Somali youth, warning that growing public scrutiny over legitimacy, corruption, abuse of power, and favoritism could further weaken the government’s standing.
He concluded by stating that while authorities may temporarily suppress protests or silence critics through security measures, they cannot indefinitely contain a population that has lost confidence in the leadership.
