As Somalia enters a pivotal year leading up to its 2025 federal elections, alarm is growing over accelerating constitutional changes and governance practices that risk derailing the country’s democratic progress.
The Somali people deserve a democratic future built on constitutional legitimacy, not unilateral rule. As President of the LI member, the CAHDI Party of Somalia, I urge all presidential candidates to take a clear position on restoring constitutional integrity, safeguarding federalism, and protecting the rule of law. The road to 2026 presidential election must begin with principled leadership for our country and the safety, security, and prosperity of our region.
— Prof. Abdirahman Abdiqani Ibrahim, Leader of the CAHDI Party, Presidential Candidate for 2026
The CAHDI Party – LI full member party – has repeatedly raised serious concerns over what it described as the federal government’s unconstitutional handling of institutional reforms, calling attention to a pattern of unilateral decision-making and exclusion of key stakeholders. The CAHDI Party criticised recent constitutional amendments and appointments to the electoral commission as legally dubious and politically motivated, warning of several critical issues. These include electoral management bypassing federal and civic consultation, which weakens legitimacy and transparency; illegitimate institutional appointments, some allegedly linked to extremist networks; procedural violations in constitutional reform, undermining legal safeguards; and entrenched cronyism and erosion of ethical norms, reflecting deepening political dysfunction.
These developments echo earlier warnings issued by the LI Bureau in 2023, when it formally expressed concern over democratic backsliding in Somalia and the fragility of its federal institutions. At the time, the Bureau highlighted the danger of consolidating executive power at the expense of democratic accountability and national cohesion.
More than a year later, the trajectory described in that 2023 statement appears to have intensified, with liberal observers warning that recent political maneuvers risk permanently damaging the legitimacy of Somalia’s upcoming elections.
Liberal International continues to provide space for liberal voices within Somalia to raise the alarm. We underscore the urgency for a renewed commitment to lawful constitutional review, inclusive dialogue, and respect for the principles of federalism.
As the 2025 electoral timeline advances, the international community is urged to closely monitor Somalia’s institutional developments and support Somali liberals working to protect democracy from authoritarian drift.
