The Somali electoral process continues to face severe challenges due to Villa Somalia’s interference and inability to ensure a fair process. This week, tensions resurfaced over the selection of Somaliland delegates after Deputy Prime Minister Mahdi Guled submitted his own list, bypassing proper supervision. Speaker Abdi Hashi, constitutionally responsible for overseeing the selection, formally complained that Prime Minister Mohammed Hussein Roble failed to uphold the 27 May agreement, instead delegating the task to Guled. Hashi’s letter prompted Roble to convene a meeting, with the opposition Council of Presidential Candidates reinforcing concerns about Villa Somalia’s divisive tactics. The Prime Minister’s perceived allegiance to Farmaajo’s interests has frustrated opposition leaders and undermined trust in the process. While elections are still possible in October 2021, unresolved disputes and continued manipulation by Villa Somalia threaten a protracted political crisis. The opposition is reportedly considering a boycott ahead of August, highlighting the deepening political instability. Somalia risks repeating patterns of electoral mismanagement, with democratic principles sidelined by power struggles and favoritism.