Since the collapse of Somalia’s central government in 1991, traditional clan elders have been pivotal actors in Somali politics, holding deep-rooted legitimacy as representatives and custodians of their clans. These leaders have historically mediated disputes, maintained social order, and played vital roles in peacebuilding most notably in Somaliland’s post-war reconciliation and governance. However, in the current political climate, their credibility faces unprecedented threats from corrupt politicians, business interests, extremist groups, and foreign interference. Somalia’s reliance on the 4.5 clan power-sharing formula and indirect elections has, in many cases, incentivized the sale of parliamentary seats to the highest bidder, undermining merit-based leadership. The longer Somalia delays transitioning to a universal suffrage “one person, one vote” system, the greater the risk that clan elders will become entrenched in corrupt political practices. While Somaliland offers lessons in integrating traditional elders into governance, Somalia’s system requires safeguards to protect their integrity and limit undue political influence. Failure to act risks eroding one of the country’s oldest and most trusted social institutions, with consequences for national unity and stability. The next administration must prioritize building an inclusive, democratic, multi-party framework to preserve both governance and cultural legitimacy.