After days of intense closed-door meetings at Mogadishu’s Jazeera Hotel, a significant segment of Somalia’s opposition, operating under the banner of the Opposition Salvation Forum, has unveiled a new unified coalition named ‘Somali Salvation’. This alliance has announced a bold leadership team, signaling a unified front to challenge President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud ahead of the 2026 elections. The coalition, comprised of influential political figures, has named former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed as its principal, supported by a roster of seasoned politicians determined to reshape Somalia’s political landscape.
Here’s what you need to know about the new leadership driving this high-stakes movement:
Sharif Sheikh Ahmed: Coalition Leader
At the helm is Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, a prominent figure in Somali politics who served as President from 2009 to 2012. Known for his instrumental role in ousting Al-Shabaab from the capital, Mogadishu, and steering Somalia through its transitional phase, Sharif is a battle-tested leader adept at navigating crises. As the former head of the Islamic Courts Union and a key opposition figure in recent years, he brings extensive experience and a reputation for steadfastness in turbulent times. Hailing from the Hawiye clan, Sharif’s leadership is seen as a rallying point for those frustrated with the current administration.
His past collaboration with President Hassan Sheikh, now a political adversary, during previous elections was crucial in enabling the then-opposition to exert pressure on the former administration.
Abdi Farah Shirdon (Saacid): Deputy Chairperson, The Steady Reformist
Named Deputy Chairperson, former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon (Saaid) brings a calm, reformist voice to the coalition.
As Somalia’s first post-transition Prime Minister, Shirdon made history by appointing Fowzia Yusuf Haji Adan as the country’s first female Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister. A Darood clansman, he is remembered for initiating Somalia’s debt relief campaign and overhauling the civil service. Currently leading the newly formed Nagaad Party, Shirdon’s diplomatic finesse and grassroots appeal make him a critical asset.
Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman: Deputy Chairperson
Also announced as one of three Deputy Chairpersons is Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman, a sharp-tongued politician from the Digil and Mirifle clan. A former Speaker of the House (2018–2022), Mursal has also served as Minister of Water, Minister of Defence, and as Somalia’s Ambassador to Türkiye 2012-2015. His legislative expertise and regional influence give the opposition a strong foothold in Somalia’s complex clan dynamics.
Abdullahi Haji Abukar (Arab): Deputy Chairperson
Abdullahi Haji Abukar (Arab), is a two-term parliamentarian and former Minister of Education under former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo. A steady presence in Somali politics, Abukar’s focus on education reform and his Dir clan ties bolster the coalition’s credibility within Mogadishu’s political circles.
Dahir Mahmoud Gelle: Spokesperson, The Straight-Talking Diplomat
Appointed as the opposition’s spokesperson, Dahir Mahmoud Gelle is a political veteran known for his blunt style. A former Minister of Information under both Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, Gelle has also served as Somalia’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and as a Senior Advisor to President Hassan Sheikh on Arab affairs. His cross-clan appeal and media savvy make him a formidable voice for the opposition’s message.
Dr. Mohamed Adan Jimale (Koofi): Secretary-General, The Security Expert
Serving as the coalition’s Secretary-General, Dr. Mohamed Adan Jimale (Koofi) brings a military and administrative edge. A former Director of Somalia’s Immigration and Naturalisation Agency, Koofi has held key security roles, including Commander of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) in Banadir Regional Administration under Hassan Sheikh and Head of Presidential Security under Sharif Sheikh Ahmed. Currently a candidate for President of Galmudug State, his experience across three administrations adds strategic depth to the opposition’s ranks.
A Unified Push Against Hassan Sheikh
The ‘Somali Salvation’ leadership accuses President Hassan Sheikh of undermining Somalia’s democratic foundations, citing alleged term limit violations in regional administrations and the transformation of the National Consultative Council into a political entity. With the 2026 elections fast approaching, this coalition—rooted in diverse clan affiliations and political legacies—aims to capitalize on public discontent and demand a transparent electoral process.
As Mogadishu braces for a heated political showdown, there is growing buzz around the opposition’s unity, with some calling it a “game-changer” for Somalia’s future. One thing is clear: Somalia’s opposition is no longer a scattered force. With Sharif at the forefront and a team of political heavyweights behind him, the battle for Somalia’s political future is just beginning.