Mogadishu (Dawan Africa) – Former Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble on Thursday in Mogadishu accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration of seeking illegal term extensions, warning that Somalia risks a political crisis if elections are delayed or dominated by one side.
Speaking at a press conference, Roble said the government’s mandate is nearing its end without a credible electoral framework, raising fears of manipulation. “We want a direct, free, and fair election agreed upon by all, and held on time. What is being pursued is nothing more than an extension,” he told journalists.
He also condemned recent term extensions for some Federal Member State leaders, calling them unconstitutional and damaging to Somalia’s fragile federal system.
Roble recalled a private exchange with President Hassan Sheikh: “The President told me: if Farmaajo, who is not from Mogadishu, managed to secure a term extension, why should I, coming from Mogadishu, be denied one?”
The former premier urged the president to respect Somalia’s tradition of holding elections every four years and to avoid any moves that could undermine the country’s unity and stability.
Villa Somalia has not denied or confirmed the accusation made by Roble regarding his private exchange with the president.
