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President Hassan Sheikh Elected Chairman as Top Leaders Rally Behind New Political Movement in Mogadishu
A major political event took place in Mogadishu on Monday evening, where Somalia’s top leaders gathered to officially launch a new political party called Justice and Unity. This event marked the party’s first official congress and its entry into Somalia’s political scene.
Among those who attended the launch were Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, and the presidents of several federal member states—Southwest, Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and SSC-Khaatumo. The presence of these leaders showed strong federal-level support for the new party.
During the event, President Hassan Sheikh was chosen as the chairman and the party’s official candidate for the presidency. This decision was made unanimously by the members present. Other senior leaders were also elected to important roles. Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, Southwest President Abdiaziz Laftagareen, the First Deputy Speaker of the House of the People, and the Deputy Prime Minister were all chosen as deputy chairpersons of the party. Additionally, well-known politician Abdirahman Odowaa was elected as the secretary-general.
The launch event attracted thousands of attendees from Mogadishu, showing strong public interest and support. The leaders of Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and SSC-Khaatumo states were also present and gave their backing to the new party. Their support highlights a close connection between the new party and the current federal leadership.
During the ceremony, Prime Minister Hamza urged Somalis to put aside tribal divisions and focus on building a democratic society. He stressed the importance of national unity and called for all Somalis to work together for a better future. President Hassan Sheikh also shared his vision for Somalia’s political future. He promised that the Justice and Unity party would work toward introducing “one person, one vote” elections and completing the country’s long-delayed Transitional Federal Constitution. These are key steps toward establishing a more stable and democratic government in Somalia.
While the launch was celebrated by many, it also drew criticism. Some people believe that the new party is more of a political alliance between the central government and certain regional states, rather than a genuinely independent political movement. Critics also pointed out that Puntland and Jubbaland—two of Somalia’s federal member states—did not participate in the launch. Their absence is seen as a sign of ongoing political tension between these regions and the federal government in Mogadishu.
Still, the creation of the Justice and Unity party is a significant development in Somali politics. It joins a growing list of political parties that are preparing for the country’s next general elections. Somalia is working toward moving away from its long-standing indirect electoral system, where leaders are selected by clan elders and representatives, and moving toward universal suffrage, where all citizens can vote directly.
If successful, this shift could mark a turning point in Somalia’s history, helping the country transition to a more inclusive and democratic political system. The Justice and Unity party has now positioned itself at the center of this political change and will likely play a major role in shaping Somalia’s future.
In summary, the launch of the Justice and Unity party is a clear sign of growing political activity in Somalia, with national leaders working to bring about important reforms. While challenges remain, especially with divisions between different regions, the party’s emergence could be a step forward in building a more democratic and united Somalia.