Former Presidents Speak Out
Former Presidents Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and Sharif Sheikh Ahmed have jointly released a statement condemning the planned illegal change to the Constitution. They assert that the predetermined outcome of the meeting of the two Houses, scheduled for Saturday, March 30, 2024, serves as further proof that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is not concerned with the unity and well-being of the Somali nation, but rather is working solely for his own benefit.
The former presidents highlight the current plan of President Hassan Sheikh to seize the powers of Parliament and the Committee of Both Houses, effectively eliminating government accountability, the leadership role of the Prime Minister, and the integrity of the election process, particularly at the government and state levels. They argue that the selection of the Electoral Commission is a clear indication of the type of constitution and elections that President Hassan Sheikh Mahmud desires. The former leaders express their disappointment in President Hassan’s unwillingness to listen to suggestions and efforts to rectify the constitutional review process and reach a political agreement on crucial points, which would ensure that the country has a constitution based on consensus.
MP Abdirahman Abdishakur, in a statement released on X (formerly Twitter), accuses President Hassan Sheikh of intending to unilaterally alter the constitution, transitioning the country from its current hybrid parliamentary democracy to a system that grants the president extensive powers. He warns that this move towards one-man rule lacks inclusivity in terms of constitutional change, as the amendments were drafted without transparency and under the president’s control. Abdishakur cautions that this divisive action will not only exacerbate the country’s existing challenges, such as terrorist attacks, widespread unemployment, corruption, and an economic crisis, but it will also widen the gap of mistrust among the nation.
Corruption and Media Manipulation
Allegations have surfaced that President Hassan Sheikh has resorted to paying bribes to MPs in order to secure their support for the controversial constitutional amendments. According to sources, these bribes range from $5,000 to $20,000, depending on the individual MP’s influence and standing within Parliament. This brazen act of corruption underscores the President’s determination to force through the illegal changes at any cost, even if it means undermining the integrity of the legislative process and subverting the will of the Somali people.
Furthermore, the President and his allies have allegedly embarked on a concerted campaign of media manipulation and propaganda to sway public opinion in favor of the amendments. Journalists and social media influencers have reportedly been offered financial incentives to promote the controversial changes and attack those who oppose them. This insidious attempt to control the narrative and stifle dissent is a clear indication of the President’s disregard for the principles of free speech and open debate, which are essential pillars of any democratic society.
These tactics of bribery and media manipulation represent a deeply troubling escalation in the President’s efforts to consolidate power and silence opposition. By resorting to such underhanded methods, Hassan Sheikh is not only eroding public trust in government institutions but also setting a dangerous precedent for the future of Somali politics. If left unchecked, these practices could become entrenched, leading to a vicious cycle of corruption and authoritarianism that will be increasingly difficult to break.
Implications
The ramifications of President Hassan Sheikh’s actions extend far beyond the immediate political sphere. By attempting to force through an illegal and controversial constitutional amendment, the President is setting the stage for a prolonged period of instability and discord that could have devastating consequences for Somalia’s future.
At the heart of the issue lies the fundamental principle of consensus-building in a deeply divided society. Somalia’s complex clan structure and history of conflict necessitate a constitutional framework that is inclusive, transparent, and reflective of the diverse interests and aspirations of its people. By eschewing this approach in favor of a unilateral power grab, President Hassan Sheikh is not only undermining the legitimacy of the constitution but also sowing the seeds of future unrest.
The exclusion of key stakeholders, such as the Federal Member States and opposition parties, from the constitutional review process is particularly alarming. These entities represent significant constituencies within Somalia and their buy-in is essential for the success of any constitutional reform effort. By marginalizing these voices, the President is creating a situation in which large segments of the population feel disenfranchised and alienated from the political process.
The perception that the constitutional amendments are designed to benefit the President and his allies at the expense of the broader Somali nation is likely to exacerbate this sense of alienation. The centralization of power in the hands of the President, coupled with the erosion of checks and balances, such as parliamentary oversight and the role of the Prime Minister, raises serious concerns about the potential for abuse of authority and the further entrenchment of Somalia’s winner-takes-all political culture.
Moreover, the timing of the President’s actions could not be more inopportune. Somalia is currently grappling with a host of pressing challenges, including the ongoing threat of Al-Shabab, widespread unemployment, corruption, and a severe economic crisis. By prioritizing his own political ambitions over the urgent needs of the nation, President Hassan Sheikh risks further eroding public trust in government institutions and exacerbating the very problems he claims to be addressing.
The Al-Shabab Factor
Perhaps most worryingly, the President’s divisive actions threaten to create a political vacuum that could be exploited by Al-Shabab and other extremist groups. The terrorist organization has consistently demonstrated its ability to capitalize on situations of political instability and weak governance to expand its influence and control.
In a scenario where the government forces the constitutional amendment through, and large segments of the population reject its legitimacy, Al-Shabab will likely seek to position itself as a viable alternative to the government it portrays as corrupt and illegitimate. The group’s propaganda machine will seize upon the perceived injustices and grievances of marginalized communities, further fueling radicalization and recruitment efforts.
Furthermore, the political chaos and infighting that would likely ensue in the wake of the constitutional amendment would divert critical resources and attention away from the fight against Al-Shabab. Security forces, already stretched thin and facing numerous challenges, would have to contend with both the terrorist threat and the potential for widespread civil unrest, making them vulnerable to attacks and infiltration.
To avert this dangerous scenario, it is imperative that President Hassan Sheikh immediately halt his efforts to force through the illegal constitutional amendment and instead engage in a genuine, inclusive, and transparent process of constitutional review.
This process must involve all key stakeholders, including the Federal Member States, opposition parties, civil society organizations, and the broader Somali public. The aim should be to build a broad-based consensus around the fundamental principles and structures of governance that will guide Somalia into the future.
The international community also has a critical role to play in this regard. Somalia’s partners must use their influence to pressure the government to adhere to democratic norms, respect the rule of law, and prioritize the long-term stability and well-being of the Somali people over short-term political gains.
The pressure should convey a clear message that any attempt to subvert the constitutional order will meet with serious consequences, including the possible withholding of aid and support. At the same time, the international community must also stand ready to provide technical assistance and resources to support a genuine and inclusive process of constitutional reform.
Conclusion
Somalia stands at a critical juncture in its history. The decisions made in the coming days and weeks will have far-reaching implications for the country’s future stability, unity, and prosperity.
By attempting to force through an illegal and controversial constitutional amendment, President Hassan Sheikh is leading Somalia down a dangerous path that risks exacerbating existing tensions, fueling instability, and creating opportunities for extremist groups like Al-Shabab to flourish.
