Somalia Sets Regional Example in Political Tolerance and Democratic Maturity: No Nation Tolerates Armed Opposition Movements: Somalia Is No Exception

By: Ambassador Idd Bedel Mohamed

It is inconceivable that President William Ruto of Kenya would allow opposition leader Rigathi Gachagua to organize armed militias, transport heavy weaponry to political meetings, or deploy such forces to guard his residence. Similarly, in Uganda, President Yoweri Museveni would never permit the return of opposition figures like Bobi Wine or Kizza Besigye under such circumstances—armed, defiant, and roaming freely in Kampala with militias in tow.

In Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed would not allow Jawar Mohammed to return from the United States, land in Addis Ababa accompanied by armed supporters, and parade through the capital unchallenged. The same goes for President Ismail Omar Guelleh of Djibouti—no such chaos would be allowed.

In none of these African or Middle Eastern nations would such conduct by opposition groups be tolerated, as it directly violates the principles of national stability and governance.

What President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre have demonstrated in Somalia is a commitment to stability and responsible leadership. Their actions, aimed at preserving peace in Mogadishu and across Somalia, are not only justified—they are necessary, but there is surely limit.

Somalia at a Democratic Crossroads: A New Chapter of Political Openness:

In a remarkable display of political tolerance and democratic maturity, Somalia is emerging as a regional outlier—setting an example in liberal governance and inclusivity that surpasses many of its neighbors.

The recent return of Somali opposition figures from Nairobi, Kenya, to Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport was met with an unprecedented level of openness. Supporters, some of whom were visibly armed and accompanied by technical vehicles and heavy weaponry welcomed the opposition leaders. Throughout the day, these figures moved freely across the capital, convened meetings, and engaged with the public—without obstruction or the need for prior clearance and permit which is required legal framework for every country.

Such political latitude is virtually unheard of in the Horn of Africa and broader region, where opposition movements often face strict controls in order to meet legal and constitutional requirement to conduct business. That Somalia permitted such an open demonstration—even under complex security conditions—speaks volumes about the country’s evolving democratic landscape.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre have shown commendable restraint and political confidence, choosing patience over confrontation. Their approach reflects a deliberate shift toward inclusivity, national reconciliation, and a recognition that political diversity is essential to Somalia’s future.

While the international community continues to observe developments in the region, Somalia’s recent actions mark a rare and courageous commitment to democratic values in a region where such tolerance is often elusive.

Somalia stands today at a democratic crossroads—boldly choosing openness, even when the path is difficult. This moment may well become a defining chapter in the country’s journey toward sustainable peace and inclusive governance.

It is therefore important to note that Somalia is still in the process of building a multiparty political system. Therefore, individuals or groups who claim opposition status outside a legal framework must understand that they are not above the law. Any attempt to defy national authority through armed provocation or political grandstanding could push the country into uncharted and dangerous territory. In such a case, the responsibility for any resulting unrest and violance will rest solely on their shoulders.

Let us all work together to safeguard the peace and security that Mogadishu has enjoyed in recent times. Stability is not a given—it is a shared responsibility.

By:

Ambassador Idd Bedel Mohamed

Chairman, US-Somalia Business Council

Mogadishu, Somalia.

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