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Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has strongly criticized the outcomes of the recent National Consultative Council (NCC) summit, warning that the federal government risks deepening political divisions and misusing the military for political purposes. Speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu on May 10, 2025, Sharif accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration of prioritizing political consolidation over meaningful consensus, arguing that the NCC’s resolutions fail to address Somalia’s pressing governance challenges.
Sharif, who leads the Himilo Qaran political party, expressed disappointment in the summit’s final communique, stating that it lacked inclusivity and failed to reflect the interests of all federal member states. He criticized the absence of Puntland and Jubbaland from the discussions, arguing that decisions made without broad-based participation undermine Somalia’s federal system. “This is a time to unite the people and listen to their counsel,” Sharif stated. “We’ve all seen where the country has ended up under this direction. To suggest that a new administration can be built from this chaos is deeply regrettable.”
One of Sharif’s most pointed criticisms was directed at the federal government’s handling of military affairs. He warned against the politicization of the Somali National Army, cautioning that efforts to align security forces with political interests could destabilize the country. “The military should serve the nation, not political agendas,” he emphasized, urging leaders to focus on strengthening national security rather than using armed forces as a tool for political leverage.
The NCC summit, which concluded earlier this week, pledged full support for the Somali National Army and called for stronger cooperation between federal and state authorities. However, opposition figures, including Sharif, argue that the federal government’s approach risks alienating key stakeholders and exacerbating existing tensions. The absence of Puntland and Jubbaland—two influential federal member states—has fueled concerns that the summit’s resolutions lack legitimacy and fail to represent Somalia’s diverse political landscape.
Sharif also praised Somali troops battling Al-Shabaab on the front lines, acknowledging their sacrifices in the fight against terrorism. However, he criticized federal leaders for failing to adequately support military efforts, arguing that political infighting has distracted from national security priorities. His remarks come as Somalia prepares for the 2026 elections, with political tensions escalating between the federal government and regional administrations.
The NCC’s decisions have sparked debate among Somali politicians and international partners, with some warning that unilateral governance approaches could hinder Somalia’s democratic progress. Sharif’s condemnation adds to growing calls for a more inclusive political process, urging leaders to prioritize dialogue and consensus-building over political maneuvering.
As Somalia navigates its complex political landscape, the focus remains on whether the federal government will address concerns raised by opposition figures and regional leaders. Sharif’s warning against military politicization underscores the broader challenges facing Somalia’s governance, highlighting the need for stability, transparency, and national unity.