Somalia: A New Warlord in Town

Reposted: March 31, 2021 (updated for clarity)

This is how Modern Warlordism in Somalia started:

Introduction: Warlordism Reimagined

In the lexicon of Somalia’s turbulent politics, the term warlord usually points to armed, self-appointed commanders who rely on force—not law or democratic legitimacy—to enforce their will. By this definition, Mohamed Abdullahi “Farmajo” has emerged as Somalia’s most unexpected warlord, not through military uprising, but via political manipulation.

Rise to Power: 2016’s Contested Election

Farmajo ascended to power in 2016 through a highly controversial parliamentary vote. Accusations of procedural fraud and manipulation shadowed his victory, infusing his presidency with an aura of illegitimacy from its inception. This pattern echoes the modus operandi of traditional warlords—those who operate above law by claiming divine or exclusive authority.

Tools of Control: Patronage, Militias, and Foreign Support

Farmajo’s grip on power is buttressed by a multifaceted network:

Unaccountable financial backing, sometimes referred to as “Qatari dinars,” hint at clandestine patronage systems.

AMISOM protection, which shields him militarily.

External alliances with Turkey and Ethiopia, offering political and strategic cover.

Dependence on clan-based militias from southern-central Somalia, reinforcing his dominance through armed loyalty rather than democratic consensus.

These pillars create an image of a leader untouchable by constitutional norms or public opinion.

Defiance of Norms: Electoral Impasse & Political Standoff

Since the end of his term, Farmajo has resisted public and international pressure to step down. The resulting electoral deadlock and political standoffs have stalled progress and undermined fragile state institutions—exactly what warlords historically do when their authority is threatened.

Why This Matters: Beyond Political Labeling

Labeling Farmajo as a “warlord” is not mere sensationalism—it reframes how we understand governance in Somalia:

Erodes constitutional legitimacy: When power is upheld by arms, not law, democratic growth stalls.

Reduces public trust: Citizens grow disillusioned with a system that values coercion over consensus.

Perpetuates instability: Political deadlocks and factionalism invite further unrest.

A Path Forward: Rebuilding Institutional Governance

To escape the cycle of warlordism:

1. Revitalize electoral processes — ensure they are open, transparent, and credible.

2. Reassert institutional authority — strengthen parliamentary, judicial, and civil society checks on executive power.

3. Decentralize security — integrate militias like the Maawisley into formal security structures under federal oversight. Their origins as community defense groups could be leveraged positively.

4. Promote inclusive dialogue — address demands from clan factions and political actors through negotiation, not force.

In Summary

Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo’s tenure bears the hallmarks of warlordism—coercive authority, unaccountable networks, and systemic impunity. Acknowledging this reality is essential for resetting Somalia’s political trajectory toward true institutional legitimacy and stability.