Opposition Warns of ‘Constitutional Vacuum’ as Somalia Parliament Term Ends

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: Somalia faces a potential constitutional crisis following the expiry of the Federal Parliament’s term, with opposition figures warning that the country has entered a “constitutional vacuum” that could undermine governance and stability.

In a statement issued under the banner of the Future Council, the group said the mandates of both houses of the Federal Parliament of Somalia expired on April 14, 2026, in accordance with the provisional constitution.

The council argued that the lapse of Parliament’s term creates a fragile legal and political situation, raising concerns about the continuity of state institutions and the legitimacy of ongoing processes.

It also accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of contributing to the الأزمة, alleging that current electoral proposals are being advanced without sufficient consensus.

According to the statement, the President is presenting two electoral pathways that the opposition considers neither credible nor inclusive, claiming they are centrally controlled and risk deepening political tensions.

The group warned that pursuing such an approach could trigger broader consequences, including institutional breakdown, insecurity, and political fragmentation, potentially reversing gains made in state-building.

It called on Somali citizens to reject what it described as unilateral electoral processes, and urged the international community not to support any framework that lacks constitutional legitimacy and broad agreement.

The opposition also indicated it may pursue alternative political avenues if the current trajectory continues, emphasizing the need for an inclusive, legally grounded electoral process built on national consensus.

The warning comes at a critical juncture, as Somalia navigates the transition following the end of Parliament’s term and debates intensify over the country’s electoral future.