By WDM Staff Writer
In a country emerging from decades of civil war and institutional collapse, Somalia’s fragile governance depends heavily on inclusive leadership, justice, and transparency. Yet, recent developments point to a disturbing trend that continues to haunt Somalia’s state-building efforts: the dominance of clan loyalty over national interest.
The Somali president’s recent delegation to Kampala, Uganda—composed entirely of individuals from the Mudulood subclan of the Hawiye—raises serious concerns about nepotism, exclusion, and the misuse of presidential authority. This isn’t merely a case of preferential appointments; it’s a bold, unambiguous display of tribal favoritism cloaked in the trappings of official state business.
The Delegation: A Clan Affair
A look at the names on the delegation list confirms the bias:
1. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud
2. Cali Balcad
3. Odowaa Yusuf Raage
4. Cabdirisaaq Hassan Sheikh
5. Jihaan Hassan Sheikh
6. Jihaan Abdullahi Hassan
7. Maxamed-Amiin
8. Cabdirisaaq British
9. Cabdirahmaan Xudeyfi
10. Cali Khadar
11. Maxamed Duugoow
12. Hinda Culusow
All twelve individuals are members of the Mudulood subclan. This is not only politically insensitive but constitutionally questionable, reflecting a government increasingly alienated from the ideals of inclusivity and equity.
The Dangers of Nepotism
Nepotism is more than a moral failure—it is a national threat. When state appointments are driven by clan affiliation rather than competence or merit, the result is a government that lacks diversity, credibility, and trust. It alienates citizens, fuels factionalism, and lays the groundwork for political instability.
Moreover, such blatant exclusion risks deepening clan-based grievances that have long fueled Somalia’s internal conflicts. For a nation still grappling with reconciliation and healing, leadership that favors one subclan over the rest sends a dangerous and divisive message.
Leadership or Clan Stewardship?
A president is not a clan elder. He is a national figurehead, elected to represent every Somali regardless of lineage. When presidential decisions are dictated by tribal lines, the sanctity of the office is compromised. The optics of the Kampala delegation make it appear as if the presidency is being used to serve narrow interests rather than the Somali public at large.
This situation begs the question: what message does this send to other clans and communities? That they are not part of the Somali state? That they have no place in diplomacy, governance, or policy? This exclusionary approach only reinforces feelings of marginalization and could dangerously erode any remaining trust in central governance.
Toward Inclusive Governance
Somalia cannot afford to treat national institutions as extensions of clan structures. If genuine nation-building is to take place, there must be a clear and deliberate break from the politics of nepotism and favoritism.
Accountability begins with leadership. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud must be reminded that his mandate is not to serve the Mudulood, but to serve the Somali people. The international community, civil society, and Somali citizens must hold their leaders to higher standards. There must be transparency in government appointments, a commitment to meritocracy, and respect for the multi-clan, multi-ethnic fabric of Somali society.
Conclusion: A Call for Justice
This is a betrayal of public trust, an erosion of national dignity, and a blow to the hopes of a united Somalia. Until leaders rise above clan loyalty and embody the principles of equality and fairness, Somalia will remain trapped in the cycle of division and dysfunction.
Let this moment serve not as an excuse for silence but as a rallying cry for justice.
WDM 