As Galmudug prepares for a decisive state leadership contest, Liban Ahmed has emerged as a powerful consensus candidate with broad support from influential community and political blocs across the region. His candidacy is gaining momentum among Galmudug's 11 clans, many of whom describe his rise as the result of consultation rather than confrontation. Community elders, youth groups, women's organisations, and local political actors in several districts say Liban represents a stabilizing choice at a politically sensitive moment. Many describe him as a neutral figure capable of balancing competing interests in a landscape where political alliances often shift rapidly.

Unifying presence in a divided political environment

Supporters argue that Liban’s long-standing history of mediating disputes and facilitating communication between district authorities, state institutions, and federal stakeholders makes him uniquely positioned to lead Galmudug during a difficult period. His message highlights unity, stability, reconciliation and collective progress.

Observers note that his candidacy has redirected the political conversation away from rivalry and toward inclusivity, creating unexpected alliances between constituencies that have historically been divided.

Security and peace as the core of his campaign

Security remains a central pillar of Liban’s platform. He has been actively involved in community-based policing initiatives and reconciliation committees, advocating for improved coordination against Al-Shabaab and stronger cooperation between security agencies and local leaders.

In recent campaign meetings, Liban has repeatedly emphasised that "peace is the foundation of development”, a strategic line that appears to resonate widely with citizens weary of conflict and fragmentation.

Deep grassroots support

Unlike many candidates who depend solely on elite backing, Liban maintains direct ties with grassroots community networks across Galmudug. Elders, youth leaders, religious figures and civil society members describe him as pragmatic and accessible, someone who listens and intervenes quietly to resolve crises.

This broad civil-society support gives his campaign a wider community footprint than most recent contenders.

Priorities if elected

If elected, Liban says he would target key areas including:

• Improved governance and accountability

• Development projects across all districts

• Expansion of education and healthcare

• Stronger coordination between state and federal institutions

• Greater political inclusion for all clans

Supporters argue that Liban combines experience with a realistic policy blueprint capable of moving Galmudug forward.

---

Conclusion

With elections approaching, Liban Ahmed enters the race with significant political momentum and a campaign message focused on unity, peace and stability. Whether his consensus-driven support will translate into victory remains to be seen — but his candidacy has already reshaped the political landscape and raised expectations of a more collaborative future for Galmudug.

By Dahir Alasow

Investigative Journalist