Somalia’s President Launches Justice and Solidarity Party Ahead of 2026 Elections

New Political Bloc Forms Amid Electoral Uncertainty

MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has officially launched the Justice and Solidarity Party (JSP), positioning himself as its leader and presidential candidate ahead of the contentious 2026 elections. The move comes amid ongoing political divisions and security challenges facing the country.

Key Figures Join New Party

The unveiling ceremony in Mogadishu saw prominent federal and regional leaders appointed to senior positions within the JSP. Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama, Southwest State President Abdiasis Laftagaren, and Deputy Speaker of Parliament Sa’diyo Samatar were named as deputy leaders, signaling an unusual political alignment of previously competing factions.

Political Tensions Rise Over Electoral Model

The formation of the JSP occurs against a backdrop of escalating tensions between the federal government and the regional states of Puntland and Jubaland. Both regions oppose President Mohamud’s push for universal suffrage elections, citing concerns over the central government’s limited control in areas under Al-Shabaab influence and the breakaway region of Somaliland.

Despite these challenges, President Mohamud maintains that limited one-person, one-vote elections could still proceed in select towns across federal member states. Critics warn that such partial elections could undermine legitimacy and national representation.

Strategic Political Maneuvering

Political analysts suggest the JSP serves dual purposes: consolidating President Mohamud’s re-election bid and challenging Somalia’s traditional consensus-based political system. Sources indicate regional leaders were offered political protections and influence in exchange for joining the new bloc, a strategy that may yield short-term gains but risks long-term instability.

The party’s stronghold in three federal states—Hirshabelle, Galmudug, and Southwest—along with influence in parts of Jubaland and disputed territories like Sool, positions it advantageously for potential indirect elections. This control could prove decisive in parliamentary selections that ultimately determine the presidency.

International Pressure Mounts

The United States has called on President Mohamud to engage in inclusive dialogue with Puntland and Jubaland, warning that unilateral electoral changes could face international rejection and potential sanctions. U.S. officials emphasize the need for broad consensus in any electoral reforms to ensure legitimacy.

For more details, read the original report on Somaliguardian.