MOGADISHU — Somalia’s federal government on Saturday strongly condemned what it described as an “illegal self-election” held in the southwestern city of Baidoa, saying the process violated national agreements, electoral laws and the constitution.
In a statement, the government said the vote was “a pre-planned act of self-appointment” that did not reflect the will of the people of the South West state. It argued that the process contravened decisions reached by the National Consultative Council and undermined the country’s agreed electoral framework.
Authorities in Mogadishu said the event “cannot be considered a legitimate election,” but rather an attempt to mislead the democratic process and impose a predetermined outcome. They noted that the procedure was concluded within 24 hours, lacking transparency, open competition and legal credibility.
“The illegal step directly contradicts the legal principles guiding Somalia’s state-building process,” the statement said, adding that it risks deepening long-standing grievances in South West and damaging reconciliation and democratization efforts.
The federal government stressed that it would not accept any process based on coercion, illegality or political manipulation carried out under the label of an election. It said legitimate leadership could only arise from “the free, transparent and inclusive will of the people.”
Mogadishu reiterated its commitment to defending the constitution, safeguarding the federal system and implementing free and credible elections reflecting the genuine aspirations of Somali citizens. 🇸🇴
