Former Somali President, Shariif Sheikh Ahmed, has strongly criticized the current Somali President, Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, for violating the country’s constitution. This came after former President Shariif Sheikh Ahmed made remarks on the annual commemoration of the Somali Youth League (SYL) on May 15. President Ahmed stated that the country is facing a dangerous political situation and emphasized the need for a political settlement in regards to the upcoming elections. He also accused the current government of trying to extend their term in office through questionable means. President Ahmed said, “It is unfortunate that someone who has held the presidency twice and holds a PhD cannot understand that their term is over and that there must be an inclusive election agreed upon by all.” He also pointed out that the opposition does not resort to violence, but instead uses legal and political means to resolve disputes. He expressed concern about the current situation in the country and warned of the consequences of extending the current government’s term. He stated, “Thank God, he has now announced that he will extend his term for one more year. I believe where Hassan Sheikh stands today is where he was supposed to die.” President Ahmed also stated that he and Puntland President, Saed Abdillahi Deni, are not afraid of the government’s security forces and their weapons. He said, “Men with weapons and armored vehicles will not intimidate us. We are people who trust in God.” He also accused the government of making political arrests and suppressing those who express their views, including detaining youth and politicians who oppose the government. President Ahmed emphasized that this is not a clan-based issue, but a political and constitutional dispute that will affect the future of the country. He stated, “We want to save the country from lawlessness, power grabs, and suppression.” These remarks from former President Ahmed come at a time of heightened political tension due to the election dispute and the government’s violation of its term in office.
