MOGADISHU — Signs of widening internal divisions are emerging within Somalia’s JSP amid disputes over regional representation, leadership authority, and control of party structures, according to party insiders.
Tensions reportedly escalated after senior officials from the Hirshabelle and Galmudug administrations — both aligned with the party — were blocked from appointing district-level party representatives. They were also prevented from establishing official party offices within their respective regions, raising concerns over decision-making transparency and internal coordination.
The restrictions have fueled frustration among regional leaders, who view the move as an attempt to centralize control within the party’s top leadership, rather than allowing decentralized political organization at the federal member state level.
In contrast, Hussein Sheikh Mohamud, a candidate for the leadership of South West State, has reportedly been granted greater flexibility. He has opened a party office in Baidoa and is said to have played a key role in selecting party representatives across several districts in the region.
This uneven approach to party structuring has intensified accusations of favoritism and inconsistent internal governance, further widening mistrust among senior figures.
Political analysts argue that the disputes reflect deeper structural weaknesses within the JSP, where competition over influence and resources is increasingly shaping internal politics ahead of key electoral cycles.
The situation has been further complicated by the recent resignation of former party secretary-general Abdirahman Odowaa, a development widely seen as exposing long-standing disagreements within the party leadership.
Observers warn that continued fragmentation could weaken the party’s cohesion and electoral preparedness, particularly at a time when political stability is considered crucial for Somalia’s ongoing state-building efforts.
Despite the tensions, party officials have not issued a comprehensive public response addressing the reported internal disputes.
