Booklet: Political Dilemma in Mogadishu – Rallying Behind a Failing Leader or Undermining and Unseating Him?

Warsame Digital Media | March 22, 2025

Table of Contents
• Executive Summary
• Key Issues
• Divisive Policies and Federal-State Tensions
• Rampant Corruption, Nepotism, and Cronyism
• Lack of Consultation and Expertise
• Failure to Counter Extremism
• The Political Dilemma
• Option 1: Rally Behind President Mohamud
• Option 2: Undermine and Unseat President Mohamud
• Potential Consequences
• Rallying Behind the President
• Undermining the President
• Pathways Forward for Somalia
• National Dialogue and Reconciliation
• Anti-Corruption Reforms
• Inclusive Governance
• Strengthening Counterterrorism Efforts
• International Support and Accountability
• Conclusion
• Call to Action

1. Executive Summary
Somalia stands at a critical political crossroads, grappling with extremist threats, weak governance, and deep internal divisions. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration is marred by corruption, nepotism, and divisive policies, raising a pressing question: Should Somalis rally behind a failing leader or seek his removal to pave the way for better governance? This booklet explores the key issues, dilemmas, and potential pathways forward for Somalia.
2. Key Issues
Divisive Policies and Federal-State Tensions
• President Mohamud’s confrontational approach toward federal states like Puntland and Jubaland has fueled political instability.
• Lack of cooperation weakens efforts to counter extremism.
Rampant Corruption, Nepotism, and Cronyism
• Corruption and mismanagement have eroded public trust and hindered service delivery.
• Unqualified appointments have worsened governance.
Lack of Consultation and Expertise
• Exclusion of key stakeholders in decision-making has led to poorly designed policies.
Failure to Counter Extremism
• Al-Shabab and ISIS thrive due to weak governance and internal divisions.
3. The Political Dilemma
Option 1: Rally Behind President Mohamud
Pros:
• Avoids short-term instability during existential threats.
• Maintains continuity in counterterrorism efforts.
Cons:
• Risks perpetuating corruption and poor governance.
• Erodes public trust and fuels grievances.
Option 2: Undermine and Unseat President Mohamud
Pros:
• Opportunity for meaningful reforms and inclusive governance.
• Potential to restore public trust and unity.
Cons:
• Risk of political instability and infighting.
• Could disrupt counterterrorism efforts and international support.
4. Potential Consequences
Rallying Behind the President:
• Short-term stability but long-term stagnation.
• Continued erosion of public trust and weakened counterterrorism efforts.
Undermining the President:
• Potential for political instability and disruption of counterterrorism efforts.
• Opportunity for reform and improved governance.
5. Pathways Forward for Somalia
National Dialogue and Reconciliation
• Engage federal states, civil society, and stakeholders to build consensus on power-sharing and counterterrorism.
Anti-Corruption Reforms
• Establish independent oversight mechanisms and prosecute corrupt officials.
Inclusive Governance
• Consult federal states, civil society, and experts in decision-making processes.
Strengthening Counterterrorism Efforts
• Develop a cohesive strategy, build a capable security force, and address root causes of extremism.
International Support and Accountability
• Ensure international aid is tied to progress in governance and anti-corruption reforms.
6. Conclusion
Somalia’s future hinges on addressing its political crisis through dialogue, reforms, and inclusive governance. Whether Somalis rally behind President Mohamud or seek his removal, the focus must remain on building a stable, united, and prosperous nation.
7. Call to Action
Somali leaders, civil society, and the international community must collaborate to overcome this crisis and achieve lasting  peace and stability.

Published by Warsame Digital Media