SOMALIA:The 10% Parliamentary Membership Threshold to Become a National Party

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SOMALIA:The 10% Parliamentary Membership Threshold to Become a National Party

The Political Agreement between the Federal Government and Members of the Salvation Forum A political communiqué jointly issued by the Federal Government of Somalia and members of the Salvation Forum presented several points, within which lie

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The Political Agreement between the Federal Government and Members of the Salvation Forum A political communiqué jointly issued by the Federal Government of Somalia and members of the Salvation Forum presented several points, within which lies what appears to be a deceptive plan serving the ruling party's agenda. Although some of the clauses touch on strengthening sovereignty, security, and the completion of the constitution, special attention was given to Clause 5, which states:

"Any political organization that secures at least 10% of the seats in the Federal Parliament shall be recognized as a national party.”

This clause is widely seen as a copy of the Turkish system, particularly the political strategy once used to weaken the influence of Kurdish parties and smaller opposition groups. The clear objective seems to be limiting the political space so that only large parties remain dominant, while smaller opposition groups and new movements are blocked from gaining meaningful influence.

The signatories to this agreement – including Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman, Sharif Hassan Sheikh Aden, Omar Abdirashid Sharmarke, and Dahir Mohamud Geelle – are not heavyweight opposition leaders with broad popular support. Rather, they appear to be former politicians seeking a way back into the political arena.

In analysis, this communiqué:

•Undermines the chances of smaller parties and emerging opposition groups.

•Establishes a limited political framework controlled by a few elites.

•Appears to provide a legal cover for a politically motivated agenda.

BY DAHIR ALASOW

INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISTS