Somalia in a critical moment as opposition snubs election

The outgoing president Farmajo was accused of interfering with the electoral process that led to voter fraud and manipulation. 

News Keydmedia Online
8 December 2021

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The opposition alliance in Somalia is calling for the suspension of an ongoing parliamentary election, citing a lack of transparency and fair competition for the seats.

This was a slap in the face for PM Roble's strenuous efforts to lead the country to a peaceful, free and fair election after the outgoing president Farmajo failed in delivering on his promises. 

Wadajir opposition party chairman, Abdirahman Abdishakur said the election is marred by manipulation, vote-rigging, and illegal interference with the process by Federal and state leaders.

The former planning minister has blamed the electoral bodies - SEIT and FEIT for violating the election procedure after the vote for the first Lower House seats were subject to a dispute.

The prime minister has been under pressure to ensure the integrity and credibility of the election which was diverted from the right path with Villa Somalia trying to produce pro-Farmajo MPs.

Farmajo is seeking a second term in office, facing a stiff contest from dozens of candidates, including two former presidents Hassan Sheikh and Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and PM Khaire.

The election was delayed three times this year due to a standoff between the political stakeholders over the electoral model after Somalia failed to hold a universal suffarge after 50 years. 

KEYDMEDIA English