The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has been actively campaigning on the promise of an open and fair election. He claims to bring the power back to the people, allowing them to decide their future—a noble campaign and one that could leave a lasting legacy for whoever manages to achieve it. However, the reality of Somali politics raises questions about the feasibility and sincerity of such promises.

Somalia remains hostage to a system dominated by tribal leaders who trade influence for financial gain. These leaders select political representatives in exchange for bribes, who then, in turn, elect the president through similar corrupt practices. When clan leaders prioritize personal enrichment over national progress, and when parliament representatives choose presidents based on financial incentives rather than merit, the system fails to serve the interests of the Somali people.

Every president who secures office through bribery demonstrates a lack of genuine commitment to the country’s future. What, then, does President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud truly aim to achieve?

Words vs. Actions:

While President Hassan speaks of holding elections on every platform, his actions suggest otherwise. Instead of fostering collaboration, he has unilaterally amended parts of the constitution to align with his agenda, bypassing consultation with political elites, state leaders, or civil society. These stakeholders, essential to the democratic process, have been sidelined.

Moreover, President Hassan has failed to address critical issues that would pave the way for a one-person, one-vote election. He has neither dismantled terrorist groups nor initiated peace talks among communities with longstanding grievances. The institutions necessary to organize and oversee free and fair elections remain underdeveloped, further highlighting the gap between his rhetoric and reality.

The True Agenda: Extension of Power

It appears increasingly clear that the president’s primary objective is to extend his time in office. Holding a truly democratic election in Somalia requires significant groundwork—building trust, establishing peace, and creating robust institutions. These tasks cannot be completed overnight. With time running out, President Hassan seems intent on securing at least two additional years, mirroring the controversial extension sought by his predecessor, President Farmajo. Ironically, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was a vocal critic of Farmajo’s extension attempts. Yet now, he seems to be treading the same path.

Lessons from History:

Somalia’s political history is rife with examples of leaders prioritizing personal power over national progress. Promises of reform have too often been empty, and actions have consistently undermined public trust. The cycle of corruption, exclusion, and unfulfilled promises has perpetuated instability and stagnation.

For Somalia to move forward, the president must break this cycle. Instead of consolidating power, he must focus on peacebuilding, strengthening institutions, and fostering genuine collaboration with all stakeholders. Only then can the dream of a one-person, one-vote election become a reality.

The question remains: will President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud rise above the patterns of the past and deliver on his promises, or will he become yet another leader whose words and actions stand in stark contrast?