Competition is intensifying for the position of Speaker of Somalia’s Lower House of Parliament after the seat was vacated by Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur (Madobe), who recently assumed leadership of the South West State administration.
Several candidates, including federal cabinet ministers and lawmakers elected from South West constituencies, are seeking the influential post, which is one of the highest offices in Somalia and second only to the presidency in the federal hierarchy.
Among the leading contenders are Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali Dhaay, the ports and maritime transport minister, and other members of parliament believed to enjoy backing from different political factions.
Sources familiar with the process say many of the candidates are either close allies of Villa Somalia or members of the federal government, fueling speculation over who will secure the strongest support among lawmakers in the Lower House.
Political analysts say the election could have significant implications for Somalia’s political landscape, as the Speaker plays a central role in overseeing legislative business, managing parliamentary proceedings and coordinating relations between state institutions.
No official election timetable has been announced, but the vote is expected to take place in the coming weeks when parliament reconvenes. Candidates have already begun lobbying lawmakers and holding meetings in Mogadishu to bolster support.
The outcome is being closely watched by politicians, the public and international partners as a key indicator of the current balance of political power in Somalia.