Local Council elections
Somalia’s political landscape is intensifying ahead of the upcoming Banadir Regional Local Council elections, with the Madalsan Political Association taking its campaign directly to communities in Mogadishu. During a major rally in the Yakshid district, party officials promised to prioritise improvements in healthcare, education and sanitation — three issues repeatedly raised by residents. The rally marks a broader surge of political activity across the capital as competing groups attempt to consolidate support before the vote.
East African Legislative Assembly
In a significant legal development, the East African Court of Justice has reinstated Somalia’s nine delegates to the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). Their suspension earlier this year had sparked controversy after critics accused the Somali government of engineering a non-transparent selection process. The court ruling brings an end to months of uncertainty and allows the delegates to resume their duties at the regional parliament.
Militant groups
A new report by the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies (ACSS) has raised alarms about Somalia’s deteriorating security environment, warning that Al-Shabaab is making renewed advances toward Mogadishu. Analysts argue that the country’s federal structure is weakening due to internal divisions, slow reforms and inconsistent military coordination. These vulnerabilities, the report says, are enabling the militant group to reclaim territory and expand its influence across central and southern Somalia.
Internal political strife
A separate assessment paints an even more dire picture, warning that Al-Shabaab’s seizure of Mogadishu could be “only a matter of time” if current trends continue. Citing the federal government’s internal political strife, stalled stabilisation efforts and persistent insurgent attacks, experts argue that the group’s momentum is growing faster than the state’s ability to counter it. The report has reignited debate over Somalia’s political cohesion and the future of its national security strategy.
Millions face hunger
Somalia has declared a national drought emergency after months of failed rains. The drought has devastated crops and livestock, leaving many communities without food or water. According to humanitarian agencies, malnutrition rates are rising, especially among children, and millions now face urgent needs. The crisis is particularly severe in Puntland, Somaliland and central Somalia. Former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has issued a public plea, calling on Somalis at home and abroad to mobilize support for affected families as international aid continues to shrink.
