Hiiraan Online

Under Barre's rule, a culture of uncompromising politics emerged, where political disputes were settled through force rather than dialogue. His military government suspended the constitution, dissolved parliament, and arrested political opponents. This transition from democracy to dictatorship set the stage for a prolonged civil war, which has persisted for over three decades without resolution.

The lessons from American politics, which have historically relied on compromise to maintain unity, are particularly relevant for Somalia. The United States was founded on agreements aimed at preserving the union and preventing conflict. Key compromises made during the formation of the federal government and the resolutions of the Civil War illustrate the importance of negotiation and collaboration in governance.

In contrast, Somalia's entrenched political culture has led to significant turmoil. The civil war that erupted in 1991 was fueled by widespread discontent with Barre's oppressive regime. Despite a manifesto calling for reform and an end to violence, Barre rejected these demands, leading to further chaos and destruction.

After Barre's ousting, Somalia fell into the hands of warlords who could not agree on a governance model. Numerous attempts, both domestically and with assistance from neighboring countries, to unify the factions repeatedly failed due to deep-rooted political divisions. A power-sharing system known as the 4.5 model was eventually introduced to foster cooperation among Somalia's major tribes, but it has not succeeded in cultivating a culture of compromise.

The emergence of the Union of Islamic Courts in 2006 briefly restored stability in southern Somalia, yet it lacked international recognition and cooperation with the officially recognized government led by President Abdullahi Yussuf Ahmed. Their inability to unite ultimately led to foreign intervention and further conflict.

Today, Somalia stands at a critical juncture. The ongoing political deadlock between the Jubaland and Puntland states on one side and the Federal Government on the other can only be resolved through dialogue and compromise. A military solution will never adequately address the political differences among stakeholders.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud campaigned on the promise of creating a “Peaceful Somalia that is at peace with the rest of the world.” He is actively negotiating with neighboring countries, including Ethiopia, which is a positive step, but not at the expense of Somalia’s sovereignty or the suppression of Federal member states like Jubaland.

However, the Federal government, under Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and President Mohamud, has recently sent the Somali National Army and other security forces to Raskambooni to forcibly remove Ahmed Madobe from the Jubaland presidency, resulting in loss of life and heavy casualties on both sides. The Federal government is also mobilizing local militias and the national army in the Gedo region. Such actions are unacceptable and must be condemned. The only enemy Somalia faces now is Al-Shabaab, and the government should focus its resources on this threat rather than creating chaos and instability in already stabilized areas.

The current leadership is creating a situation reminiscent of the 1991 civil war, pitting Somali tribes against one another. The Somali people yearn for peace, education, development, and basic necessities for survival. Both Hassan and Hamza previously opposed former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo for similar actions. As the saying goes, “A man without principles is like a ship without a rudder.”

I urge the leaders of the Federal government to recognize their moral obligation and religious duty to leave the country better than they found it, avoid loss of life, and act responsibly.

The international community must intervene immediately to prevent the Federal government from exacerbating the situation for the Somali people. It is evident that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre are avoiding dialogue and failing to reach a political settlement regarding the nation’s future. The international community cannot stand by as Somalia sinks deeper into political turmoil reminiscent of the 1991 civil war. It is a moral obligation and a humanitarian necessity to intervene and stop those perpetuating discord.

To forge a better future for Somalia, it is essential to learn from past mistakes and embrace the principles of compromise and mutual respect. By doing so, Somalia can pave the way for a brighter future for its younger generations, free from the shadows of conflict and division.