Despite great optimism, insecurity and a fractious political space mean reconciliation will be crucial to the success of elections in Somalia in 2021.
Somalia articles on Democracy Chronicles
News about the struggle for democracy in Somalia. Somalia is not a functioning democracy. According to Freedom House, the "state largely ceased to exist and has no governing authority or ability to protect political rights and liberties". Also check out our section on World Democracy and our articles on Africa.
Somaliland Celebrates Independence Despite Lack of Recognition
The breakaway state of Somaliland is preparing to celebrate 28 years since it declared independence from Somalia. No country recognizes Somaliland as a sovereign nation
Somaliland Must Free Poet Detained for Political Poem on Justice Reform
Somaliland authorities should immediately and unconditionally release from arbitrary detention Abdirahman Ibrahim Adan, a poet known as “Abdirahman Abees.
Young Muslim-Americans Celebrate First Somali Woman in Congress
Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib first Muslim women to serve in Congress, were sworn into office Thursday, witness by young Muslim Americans and refugees.
Impeachment of Somalia’s President Dropped by Parliament
Weeks of bickering and negotiation in Somalia’s parliament have stopped an effort to remove President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo though impeachment.
Political Aspirations of Al-Shabab Leader Divides Somali Politics
Somalia federal Minister for Public Works Abdifitaah has resigned over the arrest and exclusion of a former al-Shabab leader from a regional election.
Analysis – Ex-Militant Tests Somalia’s Fledgling Democracy
Last year Mukhtar Robow had a $5 million U.S. bounty on his head. Former Islamist al-Shabab militant has downed his guns and donned the garb of a democrat.
Somali Ex-Shabab Militant Leader Running For Political Office
The former No. 2 leader of Somalia-based militant group al-Shabab wants to become president of the country’s South West regional state.
Upheaval in Ethiopia’s Somali Region Tests PM’s Reforms
Tension continues to run high in Ethiopia’s Somali region after federal and regional forces clashed last week, and the step down of the regional president.
Somalia, Eritrea Mend Ties as Change Sweeps Horn of Africa
Somalia and Eritrea establish diplomatic ties after over a decade of animosity, in the latest lightning rapprochement between Horn of Africa rivals.