Mogadishu — Former President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, has released a wide-ranging political statement warning that Somalia is facing serious political, security, economic, and social challenges, and urging urgent corrective action to prevent further instability.
Reflecting on the country’s state-building efforts since 2000, Farmaajo said that despite the heavy sacrifices made by the Somali people, the national objectives of unity, stability, and effective governance have suffered major setbacks in recent years.
On security, the former president identified Al-Shabaab as the most serious threat to Somalia’s sovereignty and public safety. He criticized the current federal leadership for abandoning what he described as effective counterterrorism strategies, arguing that this has weakened pressure on the militant group. Farmaajo also raised alarm over the deteriorating state of the Somali National Army (SNA), citing poor planning, corruption, politicized recruitment, and fragmented command structures. According to him, these weaknesses have enabled Al-Shabaab to retake areas that were previously liberated. He further noted a resurgence of armed clan conflicts, blaming the absence of a clear national reconciliation policy.
Politically, Farmaajo accused the current leadership of departing from inclusive governance principles. He alleged that unlawful changes have been made to the Provisional Constitution and that the electoral process has been manipulated in ways that undermine political legitimacy and public trust.
On the economic front, Farmaajo pointed to rising inflation, mismanagement of public finances, widespread corruption, and declining investor and business confidence as key factors worsening the living conditions of ordinary Somalis.
In his concluding remarks, Farmaajo called for national unity in the fight against terrorism, strict adherence to the constitution, and inclusive political dialogue among all stakeholders. He urged the rejection of illegal term extensions, demanded urgent humanitarian action to address the ongoing drought, and appealed to the international community to play a constructive role in supporting a consensual and stable political path for Somalia.
The statement adds to growing political debate over Somalia’s direction amid persistent security threats and mounting economic pressures.
