By Mohamed Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 1 February 2026 Former Mogadishu governor Yusuf Hussein Jimale ‘Madaale’ has defended Somalia’s one-person, one-vote election system, dismissing criticism of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud over campaign pledges as misplaced.
Speaking at a meeting in Mogadishu on Saturday Jimale said promises made by candidates to finalize the constitution and implement direct elections were common talking points discussed broadly during the campaign, rather than commitments unique to any single contender.
“What President Hassan is being criticized for now are the very same points that all candidates mentioned during their campaigns, and that is a mistake,” Jimale said.
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Jimale, who has served twice as Mogadishu governor—both times appointed by President Mohamud—suggested that future candidate speeches should include clear evidence of each candidate’s specific objectives and a political commitment to cooperate with the eventual winner if they do not succeed.
He also urged candidates to honour their pledges, emphasizing that public trust depends on integrity and tangible follow-through.
