Mogadishu, Somalia — Abdirahman Mohamed Hussein (Odawaa), Secretary-General of the Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP), has confirmed he will run for Somalia’s presidency in the 2026 elections, in a statement to Shabelle Media Network.
Odawaa said he would soon unveil his campaign platform to supporters but emphasized that he and his political allies have already agreed on his candidacy for the presidency of the Federal Republic of Somalia. His announcement signals that the JSP will not back incumbent President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for re-election under the party banner.
“Our country needs an experienced leader who has worked with previous generations, understands the youth, and possesses the knowledge to govern effectively,” Odawaa said.
The move highlights growing tensions within Somalia’s political landscape. Sources told Shabelle that a serious rift has emerged between Odawaa and President Hassan Sheikh after Odawaa informed him of his presidential ambitions. The president has previously confirmed his intention to seek a fourth term in office.
Political analysts warn that the dispute could fracture the Justice and Solidarity Party or at least split it into rival factions ahead of the 2026 vote.
Odawaa, a two-time lawmaker and former interior minister, has long-standing ties with Hassan Sheikh, having worked closely with him at SIMAD University, where both held leadership roles. The two were considered close allies for years.
However, relations have reportedly deteriorated amid Odawaa’s criticism of the president’s governance during the current term and claims of exclusion from key decision-making processes.
The JSP, under Odawaa’s leadership, notably did not participate in recent constitutional amendment campaigns and refrained from endorsing the process—fueling speculation that the party may be distancing itself from the president’s agenda.
