Hasan Sheikh Calls For Issue-Based Politics To Address Somalia's Challenges

By Asha Elmi - Reporter

Somalia, 24 November 2025 — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has challenged political leaders to adopt transparent, accountable leadership and present clear, measurable plans to the public, warning that Somalia must not remain a country burdened by unemployment and unfulfilled political promises.

Speaking at the closing of the First Somali Justice Sector Conference today, the President said the main obstacle to national progress is not ordinary citizens, religious leaders, professionals or youth, but a political culture that has failed to deliver meaningful change over the past 35 years.

“A country where people come to work and its citizens are not left unemployed. However, what I want to explain now is who stands in the way. Politics is an obstacle. Our politicians are an obstacle to those who step forward to participate in politics” he said.

He stressed that politicians seeking leadership must clearly outline what they intend to achieve and submit themselves to public accountability, allowing citizens to assess performance and replace leaders who fail to meet their commitments.

Hassan Sheikh said leadership should be based on service and results rather than defamation, political attacks or vague promises, adding that Somali citizens deserve leaders who offer practical solutions and visible progress.

He criticised political figures whom he said isolate themselves from the public, urging them to engage directly with communities and better understand the realities of urban life, governance and security.