Addis Ababa – Reliable sources confirm that a major political campaign is underway in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, targeting Mustafe Muhumed Omar, popularly known as Mustafe Cagjar, the President of the Somali Regional State of Ethiopia.
The movement is reportedly gaining momentum and being spearheaded by influential figures from the Somali region, including respected traditional elders, former politicians, and key community leaders.
Key Figures Behind the Campaign
President of the Somali Regional State (the sixth to hold the office)
• Mohamed Hiis Kalane, former member of the Dulmidiid group and former political advisor to President Mustafe Cagjar
• Additional unnamed influential figures with significant local authority
According to preliminary reports, the campaign is fueled by growing dissatisfaction with Mustafe Cagjar’s leadership style. The core grievances include:
• Allegations of authoritarian governance and marginalization of rival clans
• Exclusion of traditional elders and opposition voices from regional decision-making
• A lack of inclusive politics, especially in how political power and influence are distributed
Observers note that this uprising mirrors the political strategy that led to the ousting of former Somali Region President Abdi Mohamoud Omar (Abdi Iley) in 2018. Abdi Iley was removed following widespread public protests and mounting political pressure.
High-Stakes Meeting Expected Next Week
The group behind the campaign is expected to convene a high-level political summit next week in Addis Ababa. Sources indicate the following outcomes are anticipated:
• Formation of a coordinating political committee to escalate the movement
• Issuance of a unified political statement challenging Mustafe Cagjar’s administration
• Possible filing of a formal complaint to Ethiopia’s federal government
• Discussions around forming a new political alliance that could serve as an alternative leadership force in the region.
Potential Implications
This unfolding political campaign may have far-reaching consequences for the Somali Regional State and its leadership. Analysts warn that:
• The move could reignite inter-clan tensions, which had previously been subdued under the current administration
• The Ethiopian federal government is closely monitoring the developments, and could intervene if the movement gains significant traction
• Other clans and political stakeholders in the region are now evaluating their position, with some expected to join the opposition movement
What Comes Next?
While President Mustafe Cagjar remains in office for now, this campaign signals a growing internal challenge to his rule. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether this opposition remains symbolic or evolves into a significant political realignment in Ethiopia’s Somali region.
Reporting by: Horn of Africa News Desk
