By Asha Elmi - Reporter
Somalia, 23 November 2025 — Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has warned of widespread frustration over the rising cost of living, urging the government to urgently address the situation by increasing salaries for public servants and reducing taxes on basic food items.
Farmajo made the plea during a meeting with some members of parliament on Saturday night, marking his first public address since his return to Somalia on 13 November.
The former president said his recent consultations with various segments of society revealed increasing concern over the cost of living and declining purchasing power.
“People who earn a monthly salary of $200 or $300 can no longer cover basic living costs. Even $400 or $500 find it insufficient, as salaries have remained stagnant. Somalis have reached a point where they eat only once a day, and in some cases go an entire day without food.”
He urged the government to immediately review wages for the armed forces and public servants, noting that no adjustments had been made for nearly three years and half despite rising inflation and food prices. He also called for reduced taxation on food imports to ease pressure on low-income households.
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Addressing displacement and social hardship, Farmaajo said many families who were once stable urban residents now face severe vulnerability and lack access to basic livelihoods.
He further warned that political fragmentation and clan-based divisions continue to undermine national unity, stressing that Somalia’s stability depends on prioritising governance reforms and social justice.
“Somalia cannot move forward while divisions dominate our politics. Our people deserve leadership that restores dignity, economic security and national cohesion,” he said.
With elections approaching, Farmaajo called on political leaders to shift focus towards economic relief, electoral preparedness and policies that protect the most vulnerable citizens.
