MOGADISHU, Somalia – Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has voiced skepticism about the federal government’s proposal to implement a one-person, one-vote election system. Speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu on Tuesday, Sheikh Sharif described the initiative as unrealistic, citing significant hurdles such as security challenges, logistical constraints, and deep political divisions within the country.

The former president criticized the federal government for taking unilateral actions, including amending the constitution and restructuring the electoral commission, without consulting key stakeholders. Sheikh Sharif warned that such measures undermine trust and consensus, stating, “Decisions about elections and issues that impact the nation’s future must involve consultation and agreement among all relevant parties.”

Prominent opposition figures, including MP Abdirahman Abdishakur and Senator Abdi Ismail Samatar, supported Sheikh Sharif’s concerns. Both leaders highlighted the government’s lack of inclusivity and transparency in its decision-making process. Senator Samatar called for a broad-based approach to Somalia’s electoral and constitutional challenges, cautioning that unilateral or rushed efforts could jeopardize national stability.

The federal government has promoted the one-person, one-vote system as a cornerstone of Somalia’s democratic development, but critics argue it is unfeasible under the current circumstances. The ongoing rift between the government and opposition raises doubts about Somalia’s ability to achieve consensus on critical reforms, further complicating efforts to establish sustainable governance and democracy.