The Risk of Multi-Track Diplomacy in Somalia
As Somalia's political gridlock deepens, external powers risk carving the nation into fragmented diplomatic spheres.
Politics
Somalis Must Lead the Effort to Resolve the Political Crisis
At a critical democratic crossroads, a deepening mandate crisis leaves Somalia asking a fundamental question: can it finally break its cycle of political chaos without foreign intervention?
Somalia Needs Solutions, Not Political Gridlock
To avert a national crisis, Somalia must bridge the gap between impractical direct elections and the corrupt clan-based model with a hybrid, inclusive transitional framework.
Why Somalia’s Traditional Elders Cannot Resolve the Political Impasse
Somalia’s traditional elders are powerful symbols of legitimacy, but the latest political standoff proves they are far more effective at validating peace deals than brokering one.
Somalia: President Mohamud’s Win in Baidoa Tests Federalism
The events that unfolded in Baidoa now stand as one of the most consequential political turning points in modern Somalia.
Djibouti Steps Back Into Somalia’s Political Crisis
As Somalia enters another tense political moment, an old regional mediator is stepping forward once again.
Somalia’s Two Constitutions, Still No Need to Panic
Somalia is once again navigating the delicate politics of constitutional change with parliament approving amendments to the Provisional Constitution of Somalia.
Ten reasons Ethiopia cannot afford Somalia’s breakup
Ethiopia’s long-term security and regional influence are better served by a unified Somalia than by a fragmented neighbor.
Somalia’s Opposition Gathers in Kismayo. Will It Matter?
Somalia’s opposition is convening this week in the port city of Kismayo at a moment when the country’s political trajectory remains unsettled.
Somalia’s Ticking Election Clock and the Cost of Uncertainty
As Somalia approaches the 15 May 2026 election, the risk of postponement looms large and not only for its politics.
Opposition Turns Up the Heat on Mogadishu’s Government
Political temperature in Somalia’s capital has boiled over. A recent attempt by opposition heavyweights to rally around a beaten victim of alleged police brutality ended in chaos.
Somalia’s Unity, Somaliland’s Claims, and Washington’s Reality
Somaliland has campaigned for decades to be recognized as an independent state, but the U.S. signals to prioritize the unity of Somalia.
A New State Emerges: The Rise of SSC/Khatumo and Somalia’s Future Unity
The creation of SSC/Khatumo marks a major step toward local self-rule in Somalia, challenging Somaliland’s claims and emphasizing citizen-driven federalism over colonial borders.
Talks in Mogadishu and Garowe Test Somalia’s Political Will
Somalia's Mogadishu and Garowe talks aim for a political agreement on constitutional, electoral, and commission disputes.
Somalia Seeks Shift Away from C6+ Model
Somalia's bold move to dismantle the C6+ international coordination group signals a quiet but historic pivot in its bid to strengthen its global standing.
Somalia’s Political Season Kicks Off, With Familiar Discord
Somalia’s election season has begun, and with it, familiar tensions over process and power. A planned national dialogue may offer a way forward.