Mohamud Mohamed Mohamud, a presidential candidate in the 2026 Somalia elections, released his programme in an interview with AfroEconomist. Born in 1965 in Mogadishu, Mohamud has vast experience in both government and civil society, having worked for UN agencies, NGOs, and regional bodies.
Since 2023, he has been the current Advisor of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Office of the Chairman, Somali Parliament. He is a governance and peacebuilding specialist with over two decades of experience in political advisory roles, international cooperation, and institutional development in fragile and post-conflict environments. He was also an Advisor to the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office from 2014 to 2017. He is contesting on the ticket of the Somali Welfare Party (SWP).
Excerpts
What better qualities do you possess compared to other contenders?
I represent a new generation of leadership, combining experience in governance and peace-building with a modern, forward-looking vision for Somalia.
I am recognised for my commitment to integrity, accountability and institutional reform, which are essential elements in restoring trust in public leadership. Given my experience, I have a reputation for a leadership approach based on reconciliation, dialogue and structured reform, with a clear objective to move Somalia beyond fragmentation toward a more cohesive, stable and future-oriented state.
What makes the Somali Welfare Party (SWP) stand out from other parties in the race?
The Somali Welfare Party stands out through its structured, institution-focused approach to governance and its commitment to long-term national stability.
Unlike political movements driven by short-term agendas, the party is built on a clear framework prioritising accountability, unity and institutional reform. Its positioning is also reinforced by a strong international outlook, aiming to restore Somalia’s credibility and engagement at both regional and global levels.
Can you give the key principles and ideology of the party?
The party is guided by core principles rooted in national identity and responsible governance: unity and national reconciliation; accountability and transparency; rule of law and institutional strengthening; social justice and inclusive development; respect for cultural and religious values and international co-operation and strategic partnerships.
Briefly list the party’s manifesto and what the party wants to do for the Somali people.
Strengthening security and addressing extremism; Promoting accountable governance and fighting corruption; Supporting national reconciliation and social cohesion; rebuilding state institutions, including the justice system; encouraging economic development through key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure and trade; empowering youth and promoting women’s participation in public life; and strengthening Somalia’s regional and international partnerships
Where does the party operate from, and what is the size of membership?
The Somali Welfare Party is headquartered in Mogadishu and operates nationally across Somalia. It also maintains an international dimension through engagement with the Somali diaspora, recognizing its critical role in development, investment and global influence. The party continues to expand its membership base, with growing support across regions and communities.
Who are the main targets of the party?
The party adopts an inclusive national approach, addressing all Somali citizens, with particular focus on: the youth, as the driving force of the nation’s future; the Somali diaspora; professionals and entrepreneurs; community and religious leaders; and civil society and institutional stakeholders
What is the party’s position on universal suffrage, and is Somalia in a position to hold one-person-one-vote?
The Somali Welfare Party supports universal suffrage as a long-term democratic objective and a key aspiration for the country. However, the party also recognises the current realities of Somalia’s political system, in which leadership is determined through an indirect electoral process involving representatives and institutional structures.
In this context, the party advocates for a gradual, structured and credible transition toward a one-person-one-vote system. This transition must be based on: improved national security; stronger state institutions; and transparent and reliable electoral mechanisms
How does the party plan to campaign?
The campaign is built on a disciplined and multi-layered strategy, designed to connect with citizens across Somalia while engaging regional and international audiences. Engaging with grassroots engagement within communities across the country. This approach reflects a clear objective to build a campaign that is both locally grounded and internationally credible, capable of mobilising citizens while strengthening Somalia’s global positioning.
