By Ogaal Party
This non-paper is submitted as a constructive contribution to the ongoing national dialogue on Somalia’s 2026 elections. Its purpose is to help identify the most practical path to restoring constitutional legitimacy.
Introduction
Somalia has reached another critical moment. The constitutional mandates of the federal institutions have expired, agreement on the electoral framework remains elusive, and political tensions have already led to armed confrontation. At the same time, the country continues to face insecurity, humanitarian challenges, economic hardship, and persistent threats to its sovereignty.
In these circumstances, Somalia needs compromise rather than political brinkmanship. The priority should be to restore constitutional legitimacy through an electoral process that is realistic, peaceful, and broadly accepted.
The ongoing negotiations provide an important opportunity to reach agreement. But experience shows that negotiations rarely end exactly where they begin. Responsible leadership therefore requires considering not only preferred outcomes, but also practical alternatives if consensus proves difficult.
For that reason, we have presented three realistic constitutional options. Each offers a peaceful path to restoring constitutional legitimacy and establishing a legitimate Parliament. The Ogaal Party is prepared to compete under any peaceful, constitutional, and nationally agreed electoral framework. Our objective is not to promote one proposal over another, but to help Somalia restore legitimate institutions and continue its democratic transition.
The Ogaal Party is a non-violent political movement. We believe politics exists to serve the people, leadership is a public trust, and better leadership can change Somalia. These principles require us to place the national interest above political advantage and practical solutions above political rhetoric.
Every proposal should answer three simple questions:
* Can it be implemented within the available time?
* Will it command broad public and political confidence?
* Will it help Somalia continue its democratic transition?
Viewed through that lens, Somalia today has three realistic constitutional options.
Read more: Restoring Constitutional Legitimacy: Three Realistic Options for Somalia’s 2026 Elections