Leadership & Governance
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Leadership and Governance Under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud :
A Critical Assessment of Somalia’s Progress
Executive Summary
This survey explores the perceptions of the Somali community regarding the leadership of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The findings, based on responses from 1,264 individuals, provide valuable insights into public opinion across various critical areas, including governance, security, economic development, national unity, foreign policy, and public trust. This data sheds light on the Somali people's views on how effectively President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has handled key national issues, highlighting areas of dissatisfaction, concern, and skepticism, as well as the expectations for future leadership. TheThe survey's results reflect a complex and multifaceted public opinion, showcasing both the challenges and the expectations placed on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration. The analysis reveals significant dissatisfaction in areas of governance, security, and economic management, with many respondents expressing concerns over corruption, transparency, and the president's handling of internal and external conflicts.
Key Points
- General Discontent with Leadership: 55% of respondents rated President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s overall performance as poor, indicating significant dissatisfaction with his leadership.
- Weak National Unity Efforts: 85% of respondents felt that the president’s efforts to promote national unity and reconciliation were ineffective, suggesting a lack of success in bridging political and social divides.
- Corruption Concerns: 84% of respondents doubt the president’s ability to be free from corruption, reflecting widespread skepticism about his administration's transparency.
- Ineffective Security Management: 77% of people felt the president has not effectively managed Somalia’s security situation, underlining concerns about the country's stability and safety.
- Economic Discontent: 87% of respondents were dissatisfied with the president’s efforts to improve the economy and create job opportunities, pointing to concerns about economic progress under his leadership.
- Lack of Transparency: 88% of people believed that the president does not make national decisions in a transparent and consultative manner, indicating a lack of trust in the decision-making process.
- Handling of Ethiopia-Somaliland Tensions: 70% felt the president poorly managed the diplomatic tensions with Ethiopia and Somaliland, suggesting dissatisfaction with his foreign policy approach.
- Conflict in SSC-Khaatumo and Somaliland: 76% of respondents felt the president mismanaged the conflict between SSC-Khaatumo and Somaliland, pointing to concerns over his handling of internal conflicts.
- Opposition to Foreign Security Agreements: 80% of respondents opposed the president’s approach to signing security agreements with foreign countries like Turkey, Egypt, and the UAE, reflecting concerns about foreign influence on Somalia’s national security.
- Skepticism Over Electoral Reform: 88% of respondents do not expect the implementation of one-person, one-vote elections during President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's term, highlighting a lack of confidence in electoral reforms.
Introduction
Somalia has experienced decades of political instability, armed conflict, economic hardship, and governance challenges. Since the collapse of the central government in 1991, the country has undergone various transitional processes aimed at restoring state institutions, fostering national reconciliation, and building a functioning democracy. Despite some progress, issues such as insecurity, corruption, weak institutions, and fragmented political structures continue to hinder Somalia’s path to peace and development.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who was re-elected in May 2022 for a second non-consecutive term, returned to power amid high public expectations for change and reform. His leadership has faced a complex landscape marked by internal political divisions, ongoing security threats from Al-Shabaab, economic instability, and foreign diplomatic pressures— most notably the controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland. The president's policy agenda has included efforts to improve national security, promote economic growth, advance electoral reform (particularly the transition to a one-person, one-vote system), and enhance Somalia’s position in regional and international diplomacy. However, the degree to which these efforts have resonated with or benefited the public remains a critical question.
This research aims to explore the perceptions and opinions of ordinary Somali citizens regarding the leadership of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Through a survey conducted with 1,264 respondents from across different regions and demographics, the study assesses public sentiment on a range of key governance areas including security, economy, anti-corruption, national unity, foreign policy, constitutional reform, and electoral expectations.
By analyzing this data, the research seeks to provide a grounded understanding of the public's trust, satisfaction, and concerns regarding the current administration. It also offers valuable insights into the priorities and expectations of the Somali people as the country continues to navigate its complex political journey. The findings serve as a vital tool for policymakers, civil society, and international partners working to support Somalia’s democratic transition and state-building efforts.
Research Limitation
- Data Accessibility and Reliability: Although primary data was collected from the population, certain areas in Somalia remain difficult to access due to security concerns, and some data may still be incomplete or unreliable, which could affect the overall reliability of the findings.
- Political Sensitivity and Bias: The political environment in Somalia is highly sensitive, and responses from the population may be influenced by personal or political biases, which can impact the objectivity of the data and the interpretation of governance under President Mohamud.
- Financial Constraints: Limited financial resources constrained the scope of the research, particularly in terms of fieldwork and the ability to reach a broader population across various regions of Somalia, potentially limiting the comprehensiveness of the study.
Ethical Consideration
Before initiating this research, we ensured that all ethical considerations were rigorously addressed by submitting our study proposal to the Internal Ethics Review Board (IERB). The board thoroughly assessed our research design, methods, to confirm they aligned with ethical standards and safeguarded participants' rights. Following their review, the board granted approval, affirming that the research adheres to the principles of respect, beneficence, and justice. This approval underscores our commitment to conducting the study in a responsible and ethical manner, prioritizing the welfare and confidentiality of all participants.
Research Scope
This research focuses on assessing public perceptions of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s leadership. The data was collected from 1,264 individuals between February 1, 2025, and May 20, 2025, covering respondents residing in various federal member states of Somalia including Puntland, Somaliland, Jubaland, Hirshabelle, Galmudug, South W est, SSC-Khaatumo, and Banadir as well as members of the Somali diaspora living outside the country. The study aims to capture a diverse and representative snapshot of Somali citizens’ views on key areas of governance, including security, economic development, national unity, transparency, and foreign policy. The research will primarily draw on primary data collected from the population to understand the public's perception of leadership, governance, and the progress made during President Mohamud's tenure. Secondary data, including reports from international organizations and government publications, will also be used to supplement the primary findings.
Methodology
A mixed-methods approach was utilized in this study. Initially, questionnaires were designed to gather data from the targeted participants. The collected data was then carefully cleaned and analyzed. Furthermore, prominent figures within the Somali community were consulted to offer expert insights and recommendations based on the analyzed data. This inclusive methodology was designed to provide a well-rounded understanding of the research topic and integrate important perspectives from community leaders.
Age Distribution
The participation of both male (67%) and female (33%) respondents demonstrates that the research was inclusive, capturing perspectives from both genders. This gender representation ensures that the views and perceptions regarding Somali leadership are reflective of the broader society and incorporate insights from both men and women. By engaging both genders in the survey, the study allows for a more comprehensive understanding of how different segments of the population view the leadership of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Gender dynamics can influence perspectives on governance, security, security, and economic development, and this balanced representation ensures that the analysis captures a diverse range of experiences and expectations. As such, the findings offer a more holistic view of public opinion, highlighting the importance of considering both male and female viewpoints in evaluating national leadership.
Gender
The participation of both male (67%) and female (33%) respondents demonstrates that the research was inclusive, capturing perspectives from both genders. This gender representation ensures that the views and perceptions regarding Somali leadership are reflective of the broader society and incorporate insights from both men and women. By engaging both genders in the survey, the study allows for a more comprehensive understanding of how different segments of the population view the leadership of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Gender dynamics can influence perspectives on governance, security, security, and economic development, and this balanced representation ensures that the analysis captures a diverse range of experiences and expectations. As such, the findings offer a more holistic view of public opinion, highlighting the importance of considering both male and female viewpoints in evaluating national leadership.
Employment Distribution
The data reveals that 38% of respondents are employed in the private sector as businesspeople, highlighting a significant portion of the population that is likely focused on economic stability, investment opportunities, and government support for entrepreneurship. Of respondents 23% are employed in institutional roles, such as NGOs, INGOs, or the UN, indicating a group that may be more attuned to policy issues, international exposure, and development initiatives. 15%15% of respondents work in the government sector, offering insights from individuals within the
public sector who may have a unique perspective on governance, policy implementation, and public service delivery. Meanwhile, 24% of respondents are unemployed, which suggests that issues such as job creation, economic hardship, and youth employment are likely to be central concerns in the overall assessment of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's leadership. ThisThis employment distribution underscores the diverse professional backgrounds of the respondents and highlights the range of concerns, from economic growth and job creation to public policy and international engagement, that could influence perceptions of leadership in Somalia.
Residence Distribution
The data reveals that 38% of respondents are employed in the private sector as businesspeople, highlighting a significant portion of the population that is likely focused on economic stability, investment opportunities, and government support for entrepreneurship. Of respondents 23% are employed in institutional roles, such as NGOs, INGOs, or the UN, indicating a group that may be more attuned to policy issues, international exposure, and development initiatives. 15%15% of respondents work in the government sector, offering insights from individuals within the
public sector who may have a unique perspective on governance, policy implementation, and public service delivery. Meanwhile, 24% of respondents are unemployed, which suggests that issues such as job creation, economic hardship, and youth employment are likely to be central concerns in the overall assessment of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's leadership. ThisThis employment distribution underscores the diverse professional backgrounds of the respondents and highlights the range of concerns, from economic growth and job creation to public policy and international engagement, that could influence perceptions of leadership in Somalia.
Education Distribution
The respondent pool reflects a high level of education, with 84% of participants holding at least a Bachelor’s degree or higher (50% with a Bachelor’s, 31% with a Master’s, and 3% with a Doctorate). This indicates that the sample is predominantly composed of individuals with strong educational backgrounds, which is likely to influence their perspectives on governance, leadership, and policy performance. These respondents are well-equipped to engage with complex political and economic issues and offer informed opinions based on their academic experiences.
A smaller portion of respondents reported having informal education (3%), with 13% having completed education below the Bachelor's level (3% with informal education, 6% with a Diploma, and 7% with unspecified higher education). W hile this group represents a smaller proportion of the sample, their perspectives still contribute valuable insights, particularly in understanding diverse educational backgrounds within Somali society. Given the educational profile of the respondents, the sample likely includes individuals from diaspora communities and urban centers, who are often more involved in discussions about politics, governance, and national reforms. This highly educated group is likely to prioritize issues such as institutional reform, anti-corruption, education policy, and democratic accountability when evaluating President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s leadership.
How would you rate the overall performance of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in leading Somalia?
Out of the total respondents, 308 people (24%) rated President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s leadership as "Very Poor," and 699 people (55%) rated it as "Poor." Meanwhile, 171 respondents (14%) considered his performance "Good," and 86 respondents (7%) rated it as "Excellent." Meanwhile, 14% (171 people) rated his performance as “Good,” possibly acknowledging efforts in diplomacy or reform, even if results are slow to materialize. A smaller group 7% (86 people) saw his leadership as “Excellent,” perhaps hopeful about the president’s long-term vision or satisfied with specific areas like foreign policy or institution-building.
The data clearly shows that the majority 79% in total expressed dissatisfaction with the president’s leadership. This widespread sentiment likely reflects growing public frustration with ongoing challenges such as insecurity, high unemployment, and slow progress on promised reforms. For many, day-to-day life remains difficult, and the lack of visible improvement in basic services, livelihoods, and national stability contributes to a sense of disappointment. These ratings suggest that a large portion of the population feels unheard or left behind, with expectations for leadership and governance unmet. The frustration seen in the responses may not only stem from current hardships but also from a sense of lost hope in political promises and the urgent desire for real, lasting change that directly impacts their lives.
How would you rate President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's efforts in promoting national unity and reconciliation within Somalia?
Out of the total respondents, 812 individuals (64%) rated President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s efforts in promoting national unity and reconciliation as “Very Ineffective,” and 263 individuals (21%) said they were “Ineffective.” In contrast, only 95 respondents (8%) considered the efforts “Effective,” while 94 respondents (7%) viewed them as “Very Effective.”
These numbers clearly show that 85% of the participants believe the president has not been successful in uniting the country.
This strong sense of dissatisfaction likely stems from unresolved political tensions, continued division among federal and regional states, and feelings of exclusion in national decision-making. For many Somalis, national unity is not just a political slogan it touches on real, lived experiences. It reflects whether people feel equally represented, heard, and included, regardless of where they live or which community they belong to. The data reveals a deep yearning for reconciliation, but also a shared frustration that this vision has yet to be fully realized in practice.
Do you believe President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is free from Corruption?
In response to whether President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is free from corruption, 612 respondents (48%) said they "do not believe at all," while 460 respondents (36%) stated "I do not believe." Meanwhile, 104 individuals (8%) answered "I believe," and 88 respondents (7%) said they "strongly believe" he is free from corruption. This means a total of 1,072 respondents (84%) expressed some level of distrust regarding the president’s integrity, compared to just 192 respondents (15%) who expressed trust.
The majority of respondents, more than four out of every five, do not believe that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is free from corruption. This overwhelming response points to a deeply rooted perception among the public that the current administration lacks transparency and accountability. For many, this belief may stem from real-life frustrations, such as limited access to basic services, perceived favoritism in government appointments, and a lack of clarity around the use of public funds or foreign aid. These are not just political opinions but reflections of lived experience where corruption is seen not as a distant issue, but as som but as something that directly affects citizens’ livelihoods and opportunities.
This significant trust deficit indicates a critical challenge for the president and his administration. Public trust is a cornerstone of legitimate governance, and when the majority believes that leadership is compromised by corruption, it can undermine confidence in institutions, policies, and reforms. The data suggests that people are not only skeptical of leadership but are also yearning for greater honesty, fairness, and openness from those in power. Addressing these concerns will require more than public messaging; it will demand visible action, transparency, and inclusive governance that rebuilds faith in leadership from the gthe ground up.
Do you believe that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has effectively managed the security situation in Somalia?
A combined 76% of respondents (962 individuals) expressed a lack of confidence in President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s ability to manage Somalia’s security situation. Specifically, 550 people (44%) responded with "Disagree," and 412 people (33%) said they "Strongly Disagree" that he has effectively handled national security. In contrast, 193 respondents (15%) said they "Agree," and 109 respondents (9%) "Strongly Agree" that the president has effectively managed Somalia’s security challenges.
TheseThese results reveal that the vast majority of the population surveyed, more than three out of every four respondents do not feel that the president’s approach to national security has been effective. This widespread disapproval likely reflects the real and ongoing threats that continue to affect Somali citizens every day, including violence from Al-Shabaab, unresolved inter-clan conflicts, and fragile relations between federal and regional forces. For many respondents, the government’s statements about reclaiming territories or reforming the security forces may feel distant or incomplete, especially if these efforts haven’t translated into safer streets, secure homes, or reliable protection for civilians.
The data does not merely suggest dissatisfaction— it points to a crisis of public confidence in the government’s most basic responsibility: ensuring safety. The responses reflect a country where too many people still live in fear, where displacement, armed clashes, or the threat of extremist attacks are part of everyday life.
How satisfied are you with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s efforts to improve the economy and create job opportunities in Somalia
Economic hardship remains a pressing issue for many Somalis, and the survey data powerfully reflects this reality. A total of 1,104 respondents (88%) expressed dissatisfaction with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s efforts to improve the economy and create jobs 567 individuals (45%) said they were “Dissatisfied,” and 537 individuals (42%) said they were “Very Dissatisfied.” In contrast, only 160 respondents (12%) reported positive views, with 80 people (6%) saying they were “Satisfied,” and another 80 people (6%) indicating they were “Very Satisfied.”
This overwhelming dissatisfaction points to real, everyday struggles faced by the population. For many young people, the job market remains inaccessible, with limited formal employment opportunities and growing frustration over unfulfilled promises. Small business owners and informal workers grapple with inflation, insecurity, and lack of infrastructure, while countless families depend on remittances from relatives abroad just to make ends meet. These challenges are not abstract economic terms; they are part of daily life, where survival often outweighs ambition. Despite plans and policy announcements, many Somalis feelfeel that little has translated into tangible improvements in their daily lives. Promises of reform and recovery have yet to materialize in a way that genuinely addresses the widespread poverty, rising cost of living, and limited access to sustainable employment.
Do you believe that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud makes critical national decisions in a transparent and consultative manner?
The data shows that 1,105 respondents (88%) expressed a lack of confidence in the transparency and consultative nature of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s decision-making. This includes 555 individuals (44%) who Strongly Disagree and 550 individuals (44%) who Disagree that the president makes critical national decisions transparently or with sufficient consultation.
On the other hand, 81 respondents (6%) said they Agree, and 78 respondents (6%) Strongly Agree that his decision-making process is both transparent and inclusive. On the other hand, 81 respondents (6%) Agree and 78 respondents (6%) Strongly Agree that the
president’s decision-making process is transparent and consultative. The vast majority of respondents feel excluded from the decisions that shape Somalia’s future. Their strong disagreement points to a widespread belief that national issues are often decided behind closed doors, without meaningful involvement from the public, regional leaders, or civil society. This perception can deepen public frustration, weaken trust in leadership, and foster a growing sense of disconnect between the government and its citizens. For many, transparency is not just about access to information— it’s about being consulted, listened to, and represented in decisions that afaffect everyday life.