Abdi Farah Shirdoon — Party Leader of Haybad Qaran and Presidential candidate addressing the Party Convention in Mogadishu on January 8, 2025./STEPHEN ASTARIKO 

The Haybad Qaran (HQ) Union on Thursday held its National Convention in Mogadishu, drawing thousands of supporters and senior political figures.

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The party adopted its constitution, approved its political programme and endorsed former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdoon (Saacid) as presidential candidate.

The convention brought together founding members, delegates, civil society representatives, and observers to formally launch the Union’s leadership structure and policy agenda.

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Haybad Qaran Party founders and delegates unanimously voted H.E. Abdi Farah Shirdoon as Party Leader and Presidential Candidate for the 2026 election./STEPHEN ASTARIKO 


Delegates conducted an extensive review of Somalia’s political and security landscape, emphasizing national unity, sovereignty, and the need to end the prolonged transitional period through inclusive political consensus and credible elections.

Security and Sovereignty at Center Stage

In its resolutions, the Convention praised the Somali National Army for their role in combating extremist groups, recognising their sacrifices and contribution to national stability.

The gathering strongly condemned what it termed the unlawful recognition by the State of Israel of the Somaliland administration, calling it a violation of Somalia’s territorial integrity, sovereignty, and international legal norms.

The Union reaffirmed its refusal to participate in any political process that undermines Somalia’s unity or independence and urged national leaders to pursue dialogue, compromise, and inclusive governance.

Calls for Constitutional Order and Elections

A powerful show of unity — thousands of Haybad Qaran supporters gathered to attend the convention../STEPHEN ASTARIKO 


Delegates called on the President to uphold the Provisional Constitution adopted in 2012, revoke unconstitutional amendments, and engage broadly with political stakeholders and traditional elders to preserve national cohesion.

The Convention asserted that Somalia’s political impasse can only be resolved through mutually agreed, inclusive, and credible elections to bring the transitional phase to an orderly conclusion.

The Convention unanimously approved the Union’s constitution and political programme, established a 151-member Central Council, elected Abdi Farah Shirdoon (Saacid) as Chairman, and formally endorsed him as the party’s presidential candidate.

Organisers praised the participation of delegates, youth, women, civil society groups, media, and security agencies for ensuring a peaceful and successful convention.