Somalia’s most contentious presidential election in decades is set for 15 May 2022, with 39 cleared candidates vying for the top seat. This high-stakes race comes after years of political turmoil under President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo’s administration. Despite the $40,000 registration fee deterring unserious contenders, reports indicate rampant vote-buying, with a single MP’s vote fetching between $40,000 and $300,000. Farmaajo’s camp, allegedly backed by Qatari funds, is spending heavily but faces strong opposition determined to block his re-election. The frontrunners former presidents Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud—are neck-and-neck, with Puntland’s Sa’id Abdullahi Deni still a factor. Meanwhile, former PM Hassan Ali Kheyre’s credibility has been damaged by suspected ties to Farmaajo’s inner circle.