By Shire Abdi - Reporter
Somalia, 21 June 2026 – Somali opposition politician Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame warned the dispute over Galmudug’s election could lead to conflict if unresolved through an inclusive political agreement.
Abdishakur, leader of the opposition Wadajir Party, made the remarks in an interview with Mizan Podcast while discussing elections in federal member states, including South West State and Galmudug.He said Galmudug’s election process should be handled through dialogue to prevent political violence and ensure the outcome is accepted by all sides.
“We have always said the election should be agreed upon, so that the result is accepted and blood is not shed,” Abdishakur said.
Abdishakur accused the federal government of interfering in federal member state elections, saying state power and security forces should not be used to impose a preferred candidate.
He said any candidate brought to power through pressure, weapons or force would lack political legitimacy.
“Legitimacy is more important than installing the person you support,” he said.
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Abdishakur said there were growing concerns in Galmudug over armed mobilisation and the movement of security vehicles by political actors, warning that this could deepen tensions.
He said meetings organized by politicians and community elders in Dhusamareb and other areas were aimed at preventing bloodshed and protecting the relative peace in Galmudug’s capital.
Abdishakur said an election that is not agreed upon could turn into what he described as “one person, one gun,” rather than a peaceful political contest.
“What is now being prepared in Galmudug is one person, one gun,” he said, while calling for an includive process to avoid conflict.
Abdishakur said the solution in Galmudug was for the current administration, candidates and other stakeholders to agree on an election framework that can be widely accepted.