MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – A fresh political scandal has erupted in Somalia after Villa Somalia allegedly circulated a message to ambassadors of international partners in Mogadishu claiming that one of their senior members had endorsed a two-year extension for the government’s mandate.
According to a report by journalist Farah Abdulkadir of Gaylan Media, the communication – sent within the past 48 hours – urged other ambassadors to persuade their respective governments to adopt a similar stance. The development has reportedly startled members of the C6+ group and other diplomatic missions based in the heavily fortified Halane compound.
One senior international envoy, said to have not been among the recipients of the message, was taken aback after being informed that he had already approved the controversial extension. Upon inquiry, the diplomat dismissed the claim as entirely false, underscoring growing concerns over the credibility of the communication emanating from Villa Somalia.
The incident underscores mounting tensions between the Somali presidency and the international community as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s term nears its end. With no clear roadmap for national elections and ongoing political rifts with two federal member states and opposition groups, the administration faces intensifying scrutiny.
Analysts say the move reflects Villa Somalia’s determination to secure a term extension despite widespread resistance. It also appears aimed at projecting an image of international acquiescence, potentially weakening the influence of regional and donor countries opposed to any delay in Somalia’s democratic process.
The controversy deepens an already fraught political landscape, heightening fears of renewed instability in a country where fragile institutions and external partnerships remain critical to governance and security.
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