Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-Somali opposition leaders mainly former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame have on Monday accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of attempting to extend his term unlawfully, claiming it violates the country’s constitution.

The leaders criticized the president for trying to stay in office beyond his mandate, despite the country’s past experience with the negative consequences of term extensions. They called on the international community to oppose any attempts to extend the term, stating such moves are unacceptable.

The opposition also welcomed Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe)’s stance, which supports the involvement of Puntland State in national discussions to preserve Somalia’s unity. They called for the Southwest, Galmudug and Hirshabelle States’ leaders to follow suit Jubaland State President.

This statement came shortly after the National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting failed to reach a consensus, largely due to Madobe’s insistence that electoral discussions could not proceed without Puntland’s participation.

The NCC meeting concluded without an agreement, and Madobe returned to Kismayo, emphasizing that key discussions on the electoral process should only move forward with Puntland present.