Hassan Sheikh Defends Direct Elections Against Opposition Criticism

Somalia, 12 June 2026 – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has defended Somalia’s transition toward direct elections, accusing opposition leaders of resisting democratic reforms and the development of a multiparty political system.

Speaking on Miizaan Podcast, of Dawan Media, the president said the main disagreement between the federal government and opposition figures is not over political ideology but over the country’s democratic future.

He argued that the government is seeking to move Somalia toward direct elections, constitutional governance and institutional politics, while some opposition leaders continue to support the continuation of indirect electoral arrangements.

According to Hassan Sheikh, the government has repeatedly invited opposition leaders to participate in discussions on electoral reforms and constitutional issues but has received few alternative proposals.

The president also criticised politicians who oppose the formation of registered political parties, arguing that modern democratic systems require political competition through recognised institutions rather than individual personalities.