The political crisis in Somalia threatens to further divide the security forces and backslide the country’s state-building process.
Somalia’s long-running political crisis has entered a new and dangerous phase following the expiry of President Mohamed Abdullah Farmaajo’s term in office on 8 February 2021. It was the first time in the modern history of Somalia that a president’s mandate expired without an election or a prior agreement. The political crisis in Somalia threatens to further divide the security forces and backslide the country’s state-building process. With President Farmaajo back-pedalling from the controversial two-year extension, a real chance exists to move the country towards inclusive federal elections. Prime Minister Roble should show responsible leadership by averting further fighting in the capital, prioritising reconciliation and remaining neutral. Somalia’s international partners need to play a leading role in this challenging transition.
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