Humanitarian crisis compounded by political and institutional instability

Pope Leo XIV called for international assistance for Somalia following the Angelus on Sunday, September 20, 2026. The Pope expressed concern regarding a humanitarian crisis where violence and extreme weather, such as El Niño, are worsening living conditions for women and children.

The crisis coincides with political instability between the federal government in Mogadishu and member states including Puntland, Jubaland, and South West State. These states have accused the federal government of approving constitutional amendments without their consent. Federal President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud maintains he is the legitimate Head of State until May 15, 2027, based on amendments approved on March 30, 2024. However, the opposition argues his mandate expired on May 15, 2026, under the provisional constitution.

Tensions also persist in Jubaland, which suspended cooperation with the central government in November 2024. Following a local constitutional amendment to remove term limits, President Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe was elected to a third term, leading a Mogadishu court to issue an arrest warrant for him.