Somalia Faces Rising Political Tensions as Election Deadline Nears

Somalia is edging closer to a major political crisis as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud approaches the final days of his constitutional term, with only eight days remaining before the mandate expires.

So far, no clear electoral process has been finalized or prepared to ensure a peaceful political transition, raising growing concerns over uncertainty and instability across the country.

Earlier, on April 14, the mandate of Somalia’s federal lawmakers officially expired. Despite this, members of parliament continue to remain in office, a situation critics describe as unconstitutional and politically controversial.

Meanwhile, the opposition coalition known as the Somalia Future Council has issued strong warnings regarding the delayed electoral process. Opposition leaders stated that if no election is held by May 15, 2026, they could move to remove the president from Villa Somalia.

The escalating political standoff has intensified fears of instability and possible armed confrontations, as Somalia enters one of its most uncertain political moments in recent years.