MOGADISHU — Somali lawmaker Abdullahi Mohamed Ali known as “Sanbaloolshe” has warned against what he described as attempts to extend the mandate of a government beyond its legal term, saying such actions could undermine constitutional order and weaken respect for the rule of law in the country.
In a Facebook post, the MP argued that accepting an illegal or unconstitutional extension, even if presented as a “temporary or minor adjustment,” could set a precedent that may lead to more serious violations in the future.
He stressed that legal systems are built on consistency and respect for procedure, adding that normalizing any form of mandate extension outside constitutional limits risks eroding public trust in state institutions.
Abdullahi Sanbaloolshe reinforced his message using Somali proverbs and illustrative examples, saying they were meant to highlight the dangers of overlooking what he called “small breaches” of the law, which he believes can gradually evolve into larger governance crises if not addressed early.
He urged political actors to adhere strictly to the constitution and avoid decisions that could trigger long-term instability or weaken democratic accountability.
Sanbaloolshe has previously been active in Somali political and security debates, and his latest remarks come amid ongoing discussions in Somalia over governance, elections, and constitutional interpretation.
