Mogadishu,Somalia-In a high-level diplomatic engagement at the Halane compound in Mogadishu, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud assured EU representatives that the Somali people are prepared and eager to participate in a historic one-person, one-vote election. This assurance comes amid continued efforts to transition Somalia toward universal suffrage after decades of conflict and clan-based power-sharing arrangements.
During the meeting, which included Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi and Security Minister Fartaag, President Mohamud briefed EU officials on the current security landscape, the country’s political trajectory, and electoral preparations. A senior EU official speaking to Telegaraf confirmed that discussions touched on Somalia’s efforts to stabilize the country and lay the groundwork for nationwide democratic elections.
President Mohamud emphasized improvements in national security, noting that significant gains have been made in operations against the militant group Al-Shabaab. “Sometimes you will be defeated on the battlefield — that happens every time you go to war — but we are winning overall,” he said, highlighting recent government-led military successes.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to democratic reforms, Mohamud cited Somaliland and Puntland as precedents for conducting direct elections. He challenged the notion that Mogadishu was unprepared for such a transition. “There is no reason to deny that elections can be held in Mogadishu,” he stated.
In a personal and poignant moment, the president added, “I have never participated in a one-person, one-vote election before. Before I die, I would like to participate in one.”
When asked about opposition from some federal member states, President Mohamud said he had extended invitations to all regional leaders for dialogue. He singled out Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe, urging him to retract the results of what he described as a “fraudulent election.”
EU representatives reportedly expressed satisfaction with the president’s responses and reiterated the Union’s ongoing support for Somalia’s path toward democratization and stability.
The meeting marks a significant step in Somalia’s efforts to secure international backing for its democratic agenda and signals growing confidence in the country’s capacity to conduct fair and inclusive elections.
