Former Somali Prime Minister Warns of Constitutional Crisis and Political Uncertainty

15 April, 2026

Former Somali Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke has warned that Somalia is facing a deepening constitutional crisis, describing the current political situation as a “constitutional vacuum” marked by uncertainty and disunity.

Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke

Speaking on recent developments, Sharmarke said the country has entered a critical period that threatens the stability of its governance structures. “We have entered a difficult period of constitutional vacuum and uncertainty,” he stated, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation.

He added that the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) is operating under increasingly fragile conditions. According to Sharmarke, the administration is “on borrowed time” and has only limited—and potentially risky—opportunities remaining to implement its agenda.

The former prime minister urged immediate political engagement, noting that time is running short for national leaders to reach consensus. “There is still one month left for the President to convene all stakeholders and reach an agreement that they can all accept,” he said.

Sharmarke also called for reforms to address recurring governance challenges, particularly the concentration of power toward the end of political terms. He warned that failure to act could perpetuate instability, describing the trend as a “vicious cycle” that must be corrected.

His remarks come amid ongoing political tensions in Somalia, raising concerns about the country’s constitutional order and the ability of its leaders to navigate the current crisis.