The role of President Sheikh Mohamud in Somalia's democratic transition

Somalia President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. [Courtesy]

Somalia is on the verge of a historic event, preparing to hold its first one-person-one-vote election since gaining independence in 1960. This significant occasion represents a major departure from the indirect elections that have defined Somalia's political landscape since the military regime's collapse in 1991.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has played a significant role in transforming Somalia's electoral landscape since assuming the presidency in 2012. His leadership has been characterised by efforts to move from a complex clan-based power-sharing system towards a more democratic process, ultimately culminating in the recent steps towards a one-person, one-vote election.