The Federal Government, whose mandate is set to expire on May 15, is facing growing opposition from several regional states, including South West, Puntland, and Jubbaland. At the center of the dispute are disagreements over proposed electoral reforms and constitutional amendments.

The situation in the South West state has deteriorated significantly in recent days, with reports of armed clashes in the Bay region. Militias allegedly supported by the Federal Government and opposed to South West President Abdiaziz Laftagareen reportedly seized control of the town of Qansaxdheere, further intensifying the crisis.

President Laftagareen, once a political ally of Federal President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud through their shared affiliation with the JSP party, now appears to have severed ties with the central government. The break follows accusations that the Federal Government backed armed groups operating against his administration.

Analysts suggest that Laftagareen is likely to resist the Federal Government’s plan to implement a one-person, one-vote system for district council elections, as well as proposed amendments to Somalia’s Transitional Federal Constitution. Critics argue that these initiatives lack consensus and could destabilize the country’s fragile political framework.

Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports from Mogadishu indicate that the Federal Government may impose travel restrictions on leaders of the South West administration. Officials at Villa Somalia have not publicly addressed these claims.

Opposition to the Federal Government’s proposals extends beyond South West. Authorities in Puntland and Jubbaland, along with opposition groups in Mogadishu, have rejected the planned constitutional changes and electoral model. They contend that the measures are intended to extend President Mohamud’s term in office beyond its scheduled end in May.

The unfolding crisis in South West is also seen as a significant political setback for the President’s JSP party, potentially undermining its broader electoral strategy and alliances across regional states.

As the political standoff intensifies, observers warn that failure to reach a consensus could lead to further instability, complicating Somalia’s efforts to hold credible and inclusive elections. By  Horseed Staff