Reports have emerged alleging that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (HSM) of Somalia is involved in a perilous conspiracy that threatens the unity and stability of the Federal Republic of Somalia. According to a credible and well-informed news source based in London, UK, President HSM and his Damul-Jadid team have been secretly negotiating with the Somaliland Administration to amend the Provisional Federal Constitution. The proposed changes would allegedly favor the Northwest Regions (Somaliland) by creating a new executive position of Vice President, a move that could fundamentally alter the balance of power within the Somali government.

This alleged constitutional amendment is reportedly the driving force behind President HSM’s current campaign to revise the constitution before the Federal Parliament. The involvement of Abdikarim Guleed, HSM’s Special Envoy to Somaliland and former head of the Somali delegation during Somalia-Somaliland negotiations in HSM’s first term, further underscores the long-standing nature of this alleged conspiracy. Sources suggest that this plan has been quietly developing in the shadows, with collaboration between Damul-Jadid and Somaliland’s Muse Bihi administration. Now, it appears that the project is being actively pursued during HSM’s second term.

British Government’s Alleged Involvement Raises Alarm

What makes this situation even more alarming are the new political developments in London, which suggest the involvement of the British government in what some are calling an act of national treason against the Somali people. It is alleged that the British government has been persuaded to support Damul-Jadid’s unconstitutional agenda, which seeks to dismantle the national consensus embodied by the Provisional Federal Constitution. This constitution, a symbol of Somalia’s hard-fought unity, is now at risk of being undermined by what critics describe as an illegal and self-serving amendment process.

President HSM’s recent actions have only heightened concerns. During a federal delegation visit dominated by officials from Somaliland, including Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, HSM’s agenda appeared to align suspiciously with the interests of Somaliland. This was further evidenced by the synchronized visit of Abdirahman Cirro, the leader of Somaliland’s Wadani opposition party and a presumptive candidate for Somaliland’s presidency, to London. According to sources, there is now an understanding between the parties to amend key provisions of the Provisional Federal Constitution, including the creation of a Vice President position. Such changes would disregard the constitution’s role as a national charter achieved through broad consensus and would instead serve the narrow interests of a select few.

HSM’s Alleged Abuse of Power

Critics argue that President HSM has repeatedly abused the Provisional Federal Constitution, overstepping his authority by assuming powers traditionally held by the Cabinet and Prime Minister. In doing so, he has effectively transformed himself into an executive president, contrary to both the letter and spirit of the constitution. This concentration of power has occurred with little to no checks and balances, raising concerns about the erosion of democratic governance in Somalia. Those who doubt these claims need only refer to the text of the Provisional Federal Constitution for evidence.

Broader Implications: Marginalization and Division

Beyond the constitutional crisis, there are fears that this conspiracy aims to politically marginalize certain prominent clans and key stakeholders within Somalia’s body politic. Such actions could deepen existing divisions and undermine the fragile unity of the nation. Additionally, critics have accused HSM of pursuing a sinophobic agenda, further complicating Somalia’s international relations and internal cohesion.

A Call to Action

The situation has reached a critical juncture, and the responsibility now lies with the Somali Federal Parliament and the Federal Member States to address this imminent threat. The next scheduled session of Parliament in Mogadishu presents a crucial opportunity to halt this alleged constitutional overreach and safeguard the unity and integrity of Somalia. The Somali people must remain vigilant and demand accountability from their leaders to prevent further erosion of their democratic institutions.

[Feature photo: Courtesy of The EastAfrican]