Prominent Somali politician and presidential candidate Nasa Ige has announced a landmark commitment to appoint a woman as Somalia’s Prime Minister should he win the 2026 presidential election, a move that would mark a historic first for the country.
Speaking at a community engagement event, Ige said his administration would prioritise restoring political power to young people and women, whom he described as the backbone of nation-building.
“Women are the foundation of state-building. If I become President of Somalia, I will appoint a woman as Prime Minister,” Ige said.
The presidential hopeful argued that many of Somalia’s long-standing challenges stem from the concentration of power among a small group of political elites, which has marginalised youth and women in particular.
He maintained that meaningful political renewal would only be possible by empowering a new generation of leaders.
Ige stated that if his party, the Somali Youth Party (SYP), secures victory, his government would place young people at the centre of decision-making, with women playing a leading and visible role in governance.
“More than a quarter of a century after the collapse of Somalia’s central government, our nation continues to face profound challenges caused by poor political leadership.
Somalia remains trapped in uncertainty largely because a few individuals have monopolised power. My vision is to return authority to the hands of a new generation,” he said.
The pledge has been widely welcomed by Somali youth, while women in particular have expressed strong support, viewing the commitment as a rare and significant step towards inclusive political participation.
Somalia remains among the countries where women have limited representation and influence in formal political spaces.
Ige, who is currently contesting the presidency, has previously served as Advisor for International Relations and Programme Coordinator to the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, as well as Special Advisor to the Prime Minister.
These roles made him one of the youngest individuals to have advised both of Somalia’s highest executive offices on separate occasions.
Among other issues, he has pledged to decisively eliminate terrorism if elected. Addressing supporters and community leaders, Ige said extremist groups continue to undermine Somalia’s stability, economy, and international standing.
He stressed that his administration would adopt a firm and coordinated strategy to dismantle terrorist networks, strengthen national security institutions, and restore public confidence in the state.
“Terrorism has held Somalia back for far too long,” Ige said. “If elected, I will ensure that our security forces are properly equipped, professionally led, and fully supported to defeat those who threaten our people and our nation.”
The presidential hopeful emphasised the need for stronger cooperation between the Federal Government and regional administrations, noting that unity and coordination are essential to winning the fight against extremism.
Comments 0
Sign in to join the conversation
Sign In Create AccountNo comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!