An elderly woman in what I could only describe as a true encapsulation of our Somali culture. If I had the ability to paint, I would try to achieve perfection until the painting in the frame too could convey the feeling of home that embraced me just by looking at her.

She looked in place, as though she was an extension of the scenery around her; like she belonged right there, right then. Belonged as much as the bushes that protected her from the harsh gaze of the sun. Or the sand that engulfed her as a soft cushion from the bruteness of the ground.

She was in the middle of pouring herself Shaax (tea) -her stick placed by her side like a tamed snake. Her protection? Or her herding stick? Could be both. Effortlessly in motion, as though she had done this a thousand times. And she probably did, countless of times.

I wondered if she came here often. She was watching over a child herding some sheep and goats. She called out to the child a few times, in an authoritative yet soft manner. The type only mothers possessed.

I was descending from a hill, embracing home. The cool breeze passing through me reminding me of the Suns call to retreat- and for me to leave these hills.

I remember it was just before Maghrib on a Tuesday evening and I was visiting family on the other town of side to go on a walk. We had not seen each other for more than a decade, and yet we got along effortlessly as we picked up right from where we left.

Allowing our inner child to roam free, we were running through the canyon and hills of Boorama. If I could frame the feeling of belonging one felt in that instance, I would forever bear it as a reminder of my destiny in this world.

‘Inapti, Islaantas bal aan sii marno’
‘Cousin, lets pass that old lady’

‘Oo Maxan Ka Dooneyna’
‘Erm, what do we need from her?’

They had a valid question, but I felt such a strong impulse to make acquaintance with her company.

It was almost as though I time-travelled back 100 years and had stumbled across what i would consider a traditional Somali. Given that we restrict our travels to cities and populated towns that have been engulfed with the innovation of technology- the sight of what was before me truly felt authentic. It felt Somali.

‘ Garan maayo, ee soo baaxa yeena gobalku nagu dhiciin’
‘No clue, but lets hurry before the night creeps on us.’

‘Ma baqeeysa Ayaaney hhhh’
‘Are you scared Ayaaney? Ahahah’

‘’hhhh haa’
‘Ahahahh yes’

I laughed back, but yes, truth was I was scared. Rightfully so; somethings you don’t forget. A few times before I stumbled in troubles way by ignoring the dusks call to retreat from the hills and into the city’s safety.

The time me and my aunty’s were set upon by a gang of teenagers came to mind, where they thought to disrupt a wedding on the outskirts of the city - or the time me and my cousins were chased by another group of hoodlums, only just reaching safety.

I quickly removed these thoughts from my mind as I glanced at my cousins skipping through the harsh rocky terrain.

She looked back at me, Farxiiyo, and laughed whilst grabbing my arm.

‘Haa baaqin inapti, ana kula joogna’
‘Dont be afraid cousin, we are with you’

‘Hayaay, ma ana baqi karo maarka’
‘Oh lord, then how could i be scared’

I responded heartily, skipping the rocks and smiling back. My arm unlinked from hers to jump over some thorns below. Thorns are still thorns, and danger is still danger i said to myself.

We were a few steps away from the elderly lady now.

She had the sort of face that demanded you. The wrinkles on her forehead as a reminder to others of her Xikmaad, wisdom. Her pupils showcasing she had seen a lot, her demeanour reminding us of her status, yet the wrinkles around her eyes and upper mouth gently indicating her softness. Strong yet kind is what I first perceived.

And thats exactly how our interaction went- the Somali politeness with a sharp undertone to remind us. What of, I didn't fully understand, but a reminder nonetheless.

‘Assalamu Calaykum Hooyo’
‘Peace be upon you mother’

‘ Wacalaykumussalam.’
‘Peace be upon you too’

Her eyes darted across the intruders who hailed upon her without an announcement. Although she didn’t say it then, I knew our foreignness was more than apparent- even if our features were the same. Even if our tongues commanded the same language.

‘Seh tahay, Ma Nabad Baa?’
‘How are you? Is all well?’

I ask to make conversation. I was testing the waters.

‘Haa Alhamdulilah.’
‘Yes, praise be to God’

‘Miyan kula Fadhisan karna’
‘May we sit with you?’

I asked indicating the ground next to her. Just sands and rocks.

‘ Yaa kuu Diidey’
‘Whom refused you’

She replied as she sipped from her cup of tea.

I looked around for an appropriate rock or stretch of sand to sit on. My cousins did the same. We sat and talked for a bit; each passing minute, a part of her defensive nature passed too.

Soon we were conversing and laughing, no longer remembering the fact that darkness was engulfing the sky.

She told us of how she came back to Boorama during the civil war, rebuilt her life here with her family, most of whom are now overseas. She had a distant look in her eyes as she recalled stories of her children when they were younger- the sort of look that implied she was moving in those memories.

It dawned on me that while the smile on the corner of her mouth reminisced the joy in these memories, the distant look in her eyes reflected the pain of no longer being in their company.

She spoke on how her daughter wanted to marry a man of a different clan during this tense period, and the whole community did not approve.

‘Qabyaalada wax ma tarto, waxa sidan inoo galey weeye. Inaanteyda raali baan ka aha ’
‘What good comes from Clannism? It is what has brought us our current predicament. I was happy with my daughters choice.’

This was the only time I had seen her passionate about what she was saying.

I took in what she said, let her speak.

She spoke on the struggles Somalis face today, scattered all over the world and scattered internally. On how we Somalis have so many things that connect us, yet we continuously choose the things that divide us.

A sad reminder, yet a strong one.

It is evident that this debate will be an ongoing one, for years to come. Until we acknowledge and understand what is leading us to have the debates, it will not only continue to outlive our generation but it will also further manifest itself into various ‘Us v Them’ problems.

I also acknowledge as a diaspora that i have subconscious bias in my understanding of the situation at hand; however, I firmly believe it is acknowledgement of such that will enable us to move beyond such a debate.

A picture paints a thousand words. For locals in Somalia, a photo showcasing diasporas who ‘returned to rebuild’ fleeing as COVID-19 engulfed the city is a picture that paints a very strong message- a message that has opened up strong debate and conversation on the role of Diasporas in Somalia.

Whilst the authenticity of the picture and the manner in which the argument was propelled into mainstream media is questionable; it has awoken deep concerns on either side of the border. Concerns that need to be addressed in a timely fashion so that we may focus our energy and resources on more pressing matters pertaining to the growth of our nation.

For both parties to move beyond emotional, ignorant and often useless debates, we must first rid ourselves of the inability to attempt to try to understand our counterparts. The Somali diaspora must understand that it is a justified concern that many have in regards to privileges and ability to retreat to comfort in another nation when the situation on the ground becomes dire.

In the same capacity, locals may be self-sufficient, however they must come to terms with the fact that there are an estimated 2 million Somalis worldwide who have been involuntarily displaced yet have amassed wealth in experience and connections that will aid the post-conflicting rebuilding process. The term referred to this is ‘capitalized diaspora’. To negate such a tool on the basis of pride is foolish but also costly to the vision we all strive for; rebuilding our great nation.

That being said it could also be argued that the hostility towards diasporas is birthed from the concept that diasporas were positioned to be ‘ saviours’ or more competent due to their foreign nationalities. It would benefit all parties if restructured in a way that would position diasporas as catalysts for development instead of saviours.

It should also be included that diasporas whom return to benefit off of rebuilding initiatives are a part of the problem. How could one justify a diaspora returning to put money into their pockets when their brothers and sisters have spent the last three decades fighting for stability? This doesn't include community- based entrepreneurship; rather this concern highlights the type of corruption that locals are justified to be vocal and unaccepting of.

I also believe the fault lies not in the ‘Qurbajoogs’ returning but rather the unfair favouritism shown by regional and federal authorities when it comes to job opportunities; not the diaspora. If locals were fairly included in certain job opportunities then there wouldn't be built up resentment but rather a more cohesive structure whereby we benefited from each other.

Even then, unemployment and a lack of investment into the youth of our nation is a dire practice that needs to be eradicated. Youth centers, employment workshops and investment into young entrepreneurs is required on mass levels. Only then will the misplaced resentment be taken away from the diaspora, but it could also build a stronger bridge between Brethren as we continue to embark on the journey of rebuilding our motherland.

No diaspora or local has chosen what side of the border to be on, however, one thing is to remain fundamentally clear- Somalia is for us all.

Whichever model is implemented, it is a stern indication of progress that Somalia can have conversations on universal suffrage. Hence, why it is imperative that you, a stakeholder in Somalia’s future, truly understand what is occurring.

This piece will provide: a timeline of the rapid events that have occurred, explain the current political stalemate, the direction that Somalia can take and lastly, what it would mean for Somalia.

FGS = Federal Government of Somalia

FMS = Federal Member States

Timeline-

• Election Bill: 21st of February 2020, after much debate and deliberation in both Houses of Parliament, Farmaajo signed the historical Election Bill entailing that Somalia is ready for a one person one vote election (Direct Election). The Bill entailed that direct elections are to be held as citizens should be able to vote directly for political parties.
• National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC): An independent body set up to oversee elections in 2015, declared that the earliest it would not be able to accommodate to universal suffrage earlier than March 2021. That being, if a consensus is reached to take the route of manual registration as opposed to bio-metric registration — which could only be feasible August 2021.

• Nabad Iyo Nolool: The term of the current administration, Nabad iyo Nolool (N&N) ends in February 2021. Possible scenarios to ensue are hosting indirect elections, an extension until direct elections or a hybrid model that encompasses characteristics from both.
• Opposition: Federal Member States and opposition party FNP have vocalized their opposition to an extension. They stress timely elections and no extension.
• Federal Invitation: Federal Government invite FMS leaders to a meeting in Mogadishu whereby open dialogue can occur for a solution. Invitation turned down.
• Dhusamareeb I: Newly elected Galmudug president Qorqor invites FMS leaders to Dhusamareeb, Galmudug. All in line with timely elections.
• Dhusamareeb II: Invitation extended to FGS whom arrive and engage in open dialogue. Ended with Committee formed to deliberate feasible outcomes and a scheduled meeting.

• Dhusamareeb III: Scheduled for 15th August.
• Removal of Prime Minister Kheyre: 25th July a motion of no confidence was deliberated in Parliament. Motion was passed with 170 for and 8 votes against. Prime Minister and Cabinet removed.
• Caretaker PM appointed: Farmaajo has appointed Khadar Gulaid, Deputy Prime Minister, as acting Prime Minister.

Indirect Elections Vs Direct Elections?

The proposed direct election will mean that parliamentary seats shall be distributed in accordance to the outcome of the votes they receive; Parliament will then be able to pick a President and a Prime Minister- the latter being from the majority party in Parliament.

The indirect election Model that is being proposed has been previously used in the 2016 election that elected the current administration. This model follows the 4.5 clan system formula whereby clan elders appoint regional representatives who would then vote for a president.

Stalemate-

After fruitful conversation, the heads of the convening Federal Member states agreed timely elections should occur- an invitation was extended to the FGS so an election model can be agreed upon. Prior to the invitation of the FGS, both the President and Prime Minister announced that there was no intention for an extension.

For a moment, it seemed as though Somalia’s political spectrum was in sync on the matter — until the speaker of the House of the People, Mohamed Mursal, reaffirmed that an indirect election should not be allowed to happen as the Election Bill should be adhered to.

Pro direct election proponents have stressed a desire to give the current administration an extension to bridge the gap between the end of the term and when direct elections are feasible.

This wouldn't be unusual however as an extension based upon an inability to hold timely election is not unprecedented in Somalia. Former President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud extended his administrations term from September 2016 to February 2017 under the basis that elections could not be hosted in time.

If an extension enables Somalia’s constituents to enjoy universal suffrage, some argue the gain far outweighs the costs. However, all parties have been vocal in continuing talks and finding solutions.

Where the Faults Lie-

Indirect elections have proven to be undermined by corruption, susceptible to political influence and not a representative of the electoral masses. Whereby a reformed indirect election could minimize the inhibition of the flaws; it is imperative leaders attempt to consult its citizens on which model appeases them.

In the past, indirect elections have proven how susceptible Clan elders are to both bribes from powers vying for influence over Somalia- but also intimidation from groups such as Al-Shabab. Such example is in mid-2019 whereby Al-Shabab gave an ultimatum to all clan elders 45 days to repent or be killed.

Similarly, the inability to schedule direct elections in time has pushed the question of whether it should be delayed until next elections. This would enable Somalia to be prepared for the logistical and security issues that prompt concern- rushing into a primitive direct election would defeat the sole purpose providing its citizens with a direct election.

Due to the importance of this choice on their citizens lives, leaders should move beyond political motivations but rather issue specific polls /research that precisely investigates the sentiments of its constituents.

What Do the People Want Though?

As an extension is sought by the NIEC, we must understand that the complication that surrounds the talks merely stems from how many separate entities must be in sync for Somalia to move forward. There is a lack of emphasis of whether the propositions of each entity are in sync with its constituents as deliberation occurs on how the FGS, FMS, and Parliament compromise with their strong inclinations to a specific model.

The task of maneuvering through this political gridlock and finding a model that appeases parliament, FGS, FMS and its constituents is a not only difficult in nature, but difficult in execution too.

The only way forward is compromise; a proposal of either a hybrid or a reformed model that consists of tangible yet appealing characteristic of both direct and indirect elections or a viable extension that satisfies all parties.

A compromise that satisfies the people of Somalia.

Whatever route is chosen, it is still a monumental moment for Somalia — It will clarify and set forth the foundations the next 4 years. It is crucial our leaders move forward coherently and in sync with the demand of their constituents.

Soomaliyaa Haa Noolato!

It was the eve of Friday July 1st 1960 when many gathered the streets of Mogadishu (Xamar) to truly witness history, to join in the infectious celebratory mood of the people or for many, to genuinely witness with their own eyes such a surreal moment. The Italian flag was lowered, and the blue and white flag of Somali Republic raised to replace it marking the end of colonization and the unity of 2 regions of Somaliweyn (Greater Somalia); Italian Somaliland and British Somaliland.

Somalia is situated in the Horn of Africa where it is bordered by Kenya in the south, Ethiopia in the west, Djibouti up north and the Indian Ocean to the East. Within recent decades, Somalia has become a synonymous term in the western world for ‘failed statehood’, ‘piracy’ and ‘chaos’ after the collapse of the central government in 1991 that led to a long-lasting civil war. But those who are familiar with Somali culture understand that being resilient is well embedded within their culture and thus, explains the fast changing climate within Somalia that now compels the international stage to reassess their prior verdict on the nascent nation.

Within the last decade or so, Somalia has been in an intense internal battle to return to some sense of normality enjoyed by states with a fully functioning central government. Although it is well known that the Transitional Federal Government has provided a firm foundation to build on; it is not debatable that the Federal Government of Somalia has made massive strides recently. Here are a few examples of successes recently:

Internationally

• Internationally, the young nation has made immense progress to relocate itself on the international stage; from the election of Ambassador Abukar Osman as Vice President in the United Nations 75th General Assembly (UNGA) to re-establishing foreign diplomatic ties with international actors. Somalia has served the post of the UNGA Vice President three times before; the last being 1986. Reelection to this role is a positive indicator of stability and a growing international presence.
• The Federal Government of Somalia has also begun to initiate conversations with breakaway state of ‘Somaliland’ in recent efforts of promoting cohesion with trade, security and matters of national importance. The first talks of its kind.
• Another indication of diplomatic maturity can be seen by Somalia tactically positioning itself as neutral in both the Gulf crisis and in the Nile dispute between Ethiopia and Egypt.

Economically

• The initiation of the World Bank via a Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Scheme to remove the $5 billion dollar debt amassed enabling the introduction of economic strategies to propagate growth and poverty reduction.
• This has enabled the Ministry of Finance to double the national budget to $469.5 million for the annual year of 2020 whereby the wages of the SNA were increased to a minimum $230 a month.

Military

• Reformation of the Somali National Army (SNA) is also another strong indication of positive progression as for the first time since before the civil war; biometric registration, effective training and continuous payment was introduced as early as 2018. This follows the adoption of a new National Security Architecture, endorsed in the London Security Pact by all parties during present during the London Somalia Conference in May 2017.
• Not only has the SNA been successful in removing Al-Shabab from strongholds but also the reincorporation and rehabilitation of former militia or extremist group members has been actively occurring.

Sports

• For the first time in 36 years Somalia Mens National Team ‘ Ocean Stars’ won their first qualifier against Zimbabwe in September 2019. The last qualifying game won by Somalia was in 1984 against Kenya.

• Captained by 19 year old Iqra Ismail, the first Somali International Womens team ever played against Zimbabwe in December 2019.

• Revival of Somali national sport teams is a massive boost of morale for Somalis internationally, who have not seen their national team hold any weight in any league for decades. It signifies that Somalia is re-emerging in the international scene in all forms including sports.

Isxilqan

• A national programme called ‘Isxilqan’ aims to include local residents in restoring national symbols such as Statues, the National Stadium, The National Library, and The National Museum. This promotes a sense of ownership in the rejuvenation of their nation but also for the first time in decades, restores monuments that promote national pride.

Elections

• Somalia is gearing up for the first national One Person One Vote Election since 1967 after 53 years in 2021.

Despite recent successes, the fact that such simple components enjoyed freely in more developed nations, such as the democratic right of the franchise, is a monumental step in Somalia is a grave indication that all recent progress is a mere tip of the iceberg. Due to the fact that the implementation of such a basic right is being inhibited by a host of interwoven factors that stem from half-hearted reform; Somalia needs to ask itself if it is truly ready for change.

Somalia needs complete massive, unprecedented reform; you cannot aim to build a house with foundations that are not stern and supportive. Somalia cannot aim to create a new whilst holding onto the old.

The tough questions need to be asked. Questions such as the effectiveness of the current federal system and whether it is coherent in Somalia’s climate. Questions regarding whether a re-evaluation of federal and state constitutions is required. Questions one must ask and then vehemently seek answers for.

60 years later, another generation flocks the streets to get a glimpse of the opening of national artifacts such as the stadium, library, and national theatre. At a day and age where many composers of modern-day Somali politics, culture and history are slowly being lost; the feeling of reviving Somalia’s former glory feels bittersweet.

60 years later, all those who have been through the journey with Somalia cannot help but become overwhelmed with the same bittersweet feeling that accompanies the changing tide of fate and the understanding that this is merely just the beginning.

Somaliyaa Haa Noolato.

Have you taken a moment all day to withdraw your eyes from diversions you purposefully place in your life to submerse yourself in the complexity of your being? Have you noticed your body, I mean truly noticed it. How are you sat or rather what pressure do you feel? Have you noticed the timing of your rhythmic breathing? Nope, i can guarantee you haven’t because here we are.

I find the saddest intrinsic trait within us as beings is our inability to connect with ourselves. Instead we pursue flawed and robust attempts of diversion and seeking fulfillment in connections with others when truly we lack connection with oneself.

My Grandmother in a small town in the outskirts of Boorama, Awdal State taught me a lesson i still carry with me today through a simple act. After waking up for morning prayers she would never go to sleep, rather spend the next few hours in solitude and reflection. Although my 10 year old self would have the tendency to fall asleep mid prayer in sujood and crawl back into the comfort of my blanket under my fortress of a mosquito net. I didn't get it then, but boy do i understand it now.

It is imperative that on our journey of growth that we allocate time to understanding our complicated selves. We as beings are complicated layers of intrigue that we often overlook and disregard yet due to this we often find ourselves questioning certain things that could easily be explained through the pursuit of connection with oneself.

Unconnect and connect with the single most important component in your life; you. Only then will you find answers for your questions and better yet, purpose for your actions.

Thank you mocooyo.