Biography of Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and what he could achieve if elected as the next President

 Early Life and Education

Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed was born on 25 July 1965 in Mahaday (Mahadday), a town in the Middle Shabelle region of southern Somalia. He was raised in a devout Muslim family that valued education and community service. From an early age, Sharif was immersed in Islamic studies, memorizing the Qur’an and studying Arabic language, Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and Tafsir (Qur’anic exegesis) under the guidance of local scholars.

He began his formal education at the Sheikh Sufi Institute, which had affiliations with Al-Azhar University in Egypt. Seeking higher education abroad, Sharif later traveled to Libya and Sudan in the mid-1990s, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and Islamic Shariah. His academic background and religious scholarship earned him respect as a learned sheikh and teacher upon his return to Somalia.

Before entering politics, Sharif worked as a teacher of Arabic and Islamic Studies. His calm demeanor, intellectual ability, and reputation for fairness established him as an influential cleric and educator in Mogadishu.

Return to Somalia and Early Community Work (2000–2002)

Sheikh Sharif returned to Somalia in 2000, a time when the country was deeply fragmented by warlords, clan divisions, and widespread insecurity. Mogadishu was divided by frontlines, and even friends or relatives could not visit each other across clan boundaries.

Driven by his desire to help rebuild social trust and restore peace, Sharif founded Al-Shuruuq Agency, a cultural and heritage institution, and established the Federation of Adolescents in Mogadishu, an initiative that encouraged youth interaction across clan lines. These projects promoted social cohesion among young Somalis who had grown up in isolation due to the civil war. His efforts gained popular recognition for fostering unity and dialogue among divided communities.

Between 2001 and 2002, Sharif served as Regional Attorney for Middle Shabelle and was later elected Chairman of the Provincial Court in Jowhar. In this position, he led a successful campaign to release abducted civilians, recover stolen property, and curb lawlessness in the region. His work demonstrated his dedication to justice, fairness, and nonviolent community reform.

Rise of the Islamic Courts Union (2003–2006)

By the early 2000s, Mogadishu and much of southern Somalia were plagued by armed militias and kidnappings, with no functioning government institutions. In response, local communities formed Shari’ah courts to administer justice and provide basic security.

Sheikh Sharif became one of the key figures in uniting these courts. His moderate, pragmatic leadership distinguished him from more radical elements. In 2004, the courts federated to form the Islamic Courts Union (ICU), and Sharif was elected Chairman.

Under his leadership, the ICU succeeded in restoring peace and order in Mogadishu for the first time in over 16 years. The reopening of Mogadishu International Airport and Mogadishu Port marked a major milestone in Somalia’s post-war recovery. Many Somalis referred to this period as the “Golden Era” of Somali politics, and even United Nations officials acknowledged the remarkable improvement in security and stability.

However, the ICU’s rapid territorial expansion alarmed neighboring Ethiopia and Western powers, who feared the rise of an Islamist state. In late 2006, Ethiopian troops invaded Somalia in support of the Transitional Federal Government (TFG), toppling the ICU and dispersing its leadership.

Alliance for the Re-liberation of Somalia (2007–2008)

After the fall of the ICU, Sheikh Sharif fled into exile, seeking a political solution rather than armed confrontation. In September 2007, nearly 500 Somali delegates — including Islamists, parliamentarians, and members of the diaspora — convened in Asmara, Eritrea to form the Alliance for the Re-liberation of Somalia (ARS). Sharif was elected its Chairman.

The ARS sought to end the Ethiopian occupation and promote reconciliation. In June 2008, Sharif signed the Djibouti Agreement with the Transitional Federal Government, a UN-brokered peace accord that laid the foundation for Ethiopia’s withdrawal and political compromise. Though some hardliners, including Al-Shabaab, rejected the deal, Sharif’s moderate stance positioned him as a key national leader capable of unifying Somalia’s fragmented factions.

President of Somalia (2009–2012)

Election and Inauguration

On 31 January 2009, Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed was elected President of Somalia’s Transitional Federal Government in a parliamentary vote held in Djibouti. He won the election with 293 votes against former Prime Minister Maslax Mohamed Siad, following a transparent and internationally recognized process. He was sworn in the same day at the Kempinski Hotel in Djibouti.

Achievements and Reforms

During his presidency, Sharif guided Somalia through one of its most crucial transitional periods after nearly two decades of statelessness. His key accomplishments included:

1. Drafting and adopting a new national constitution (2012)
2. Re-establishing the Somali National Army, Police, and Judiciary
3. Reopening the Central Bank of Somalia
4. Restoring Mogadishu’s main seaport and airport
5. Driving Al-Shabaab out of Mogadishu (2011) with the help of AMISOM forces
6.  Promoting reconciliation and national dialogue among Somalia’s political regions

His administration was widely seen as a turning point in Somalia’s recovery and state-building process. The United Nations, Arab League, and African Union praised his leadership and engagement with the international community.

Key Diplomatic Engagements

1. March 2009 – Attended the Arab League Summit in Baghdad.
2. August 2009 – Held a joint press conference with U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton in Nairobi.
3. September 2009 – Addressed the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, D.C.
4. October 2009 & 2010 – Delivered speeches at the UN General Assembly advocating for peace and humanitarian support.
5. 2010–2012 – Represented Somalia in major global conferences in Istanbul, London, Garowe, and Dubai, all focused on reconstruction and governance reform.

End of Tenure

Sharif’s presidency concluded on 20 August 2012, marking the end of the Transitional Federal Government and the establishment of the Federal Government of Somalia. His peaceful concession after losing the 2012 Presidential Election to Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was widely hailed as Somalia’s first democratic transfer of power in over four decades.

Post-Presidency (2012–Present)

After leaving office, Sheikh Sharif continued his involvement in Somali politics and civil leadership:

• 2017: Contested in the presidential election, receiving 45 votes in the second round.
• 2018: Founded the Himilo Qaran party, promoting Islamic democracy and social justice.
• 2019: Co-founded the Forum for National Parties (FNP), an alliance of major opposition parties, alongside former President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
• 2020: Elected Chairman of the Council of Presidential Candidates (CPC), which worked to ensure transparent elections and resolve political crises.
• 2022: Ran again in the presidential election, securing not enough votes in the first round because he strongly stand against bribing Federal Members of Parliament to secure enough votes despite his opponents paying 100,000 US Dollars to each Federal Members of Parliament vote.

Academic and International Recognition

Sheikh Sharif was awarded a Fellowship at Boston University’s African Presidential Archives and Research Center (APARC) under the “Former Presidents in Residence” program, honoring his contributions to peacebuilding and governance in Somalia.

Personal Life and Character

Sheikh Sharif is married to two wives and has sixteen children. Known for his humility and calm temperament, he is described as kind, approachable, and deeply religious. He is tall, clean-bearded, and often seen wearing a traditional kufi (hat).

He values education, debate, and intellectual exchange, and is widely respected for his honesty, integrity, and aversion to corruption. Those who know him describe him as a man of principle and faith, committed to the betterment of Somalia and the unity of its people.

Legacy

Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed is remembered as one of the key architects of modern Somalia — a leader who guided the country from chaos toward statehood. His tenure laid the foundation for Somalia’s federal governance, national institutions, and democratic processes. Many Somalis and international observers refer to him as “The Father of Modern Somalia.”

What Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed Could Achieve as Somalia’s Next President

If re-elected as Somalia’s president, Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed would bring a wealth of political experience, religious moderation, and proven leadership that could help Somalia reclaim stability, sovereignty, and national unity. As a former president (2009–2012) credited with reviving national institutions and defeating Al-Shabaab from Mogadishu, Sheikh Sharif remains one of the few Somali leaders who combine religious credibility, nationalist commitment, and pragmatic political skill. His return to leadership could mark a new era of reconciliation, social rebuilding, and decisive action against insecurity.

1. Liberation from Al-Shabaab and Restoring Security

One of Sheikh Sharif’s most significant achievements during his first presidency was driving Al-Shabaab out of Mogadishu in 2011. Under his leadership, the Somali National Army (SNA), supported by AMISOM, secured key strategic victories that transformed Mogadishu from a war zone into a functioning capital. 

If elected again, Sheikh Sharif is well positioned to complete the unfinished task of liberating the country from Al-Shabaab. His deep understanding of the insurgency’s origins having led the Islamic Courts Union before extremists hijacked the movement gives him a unique ideological and social insight into the group’s operations, motivations, and weaknesses

Sharif’s strategy would likely blend military pressure with political dialogue, offering a pathway for defectors and community reconciliation while strengthening national forces to conduct independent security operations. His religious legitimacy could also play a crucial role in countering extremist narratives, providing an authentic Islamic alternative to Al-Shabaab’s distorted ideology.

2. Restoring Social Trust and National Cohesion

Somalia’s prolonged conflict has fractured social trust among clans and political groups. Sheikh Sharif’s greatest strength lies in his reputation as a unifier. During his tenure as president, he prioritized dialogue between political factions, regions, and religious communities.

If given another term, Sharif could launch a National Social Reconciliation Initiative bringing together elders, scholars, youth, and women leaders to rebuild inter-clan relations and create local mechanisms for justice and forgiveness. His non-partisan approach and history of inclusiveness make him an ideal figure to bridge the gap between the Federal Government and Federal Member States, which has been one of the main sources of political instability in recent years.

Sharif’s leadership would likely restore the spirit of national cooperation, reducing political polarization and ensuring that governance benefits reach all regions of Somalia. Through open dialogue, respect for traditional leadership, and constitutional reform, he could lay the groundwork for a socially cohesive and politically stable Somalia.

 3. Institutional Rebuilding and Economic Revival

Having re-established the Central Bank, National Army, Police Force, and Judiciary during his previous administration, Sheikh Sharif understands the fundamentals of state-building. His second presidency could focus on strengthening these institutions to function independently, transparently, and accountably.

He could prioritize reforms that ensure fiscal discipline, anti-corruption systems, and the professionalization of the security and civil service sectors. Sharif’s pragmatic relationships with international partners particularly the Arab League, African Union, and Western donors would enable Somalia to attract investment and aid for infrastructure, education, and job creation, especially for youth who remain vulnerable to extremist recruitment.

Economically, he could expand initiatives in agriculture, fisheries, and livestock, sectors that form the backbone of Somalia’s livelihood economy. By promoting trade links with the Gulf and East African markets, Sharif could stimulate job growth and reduce dependence on humanitarian aid.

 4. Strengthening Governance and Federalism

Somalia’s federal structure has often been undermined by mistrust between the central government and regional states. Sheikh Sharif’s consensus-driven leadership style and reputation for fairness position him well to rebuild a cooperative federal system.

He could revive consultative forums such as the National Security Council and Intergovernmental Fiscal Commission, ensuring that states participate meaningfully in national decision-making. Sharif’s inclusive politics would help balance power among institutions presidency, parliament, and judiciary thereby reducing political crises and promoting constitutional stability

 5. Diplomatic Renewal and International Partnerships

Sharif’s first presidency demonstrated his ability to restore Somalia’s credibility abroad. His speeches at the United Nations, Arab League, and African Union elevated Somalia’s image as a country returning to legitimacy. If re-elected, he could reinvigorate Somalia’s foreign policy, strengthen ties with neighboring countries, and rebuild trust with international partners to ensure that foreign aid aligns with national priorities.

Under his leadership, Somalia could also play a more active role in regional diplomacy, especially in the Horn of Africa, promoting peace with Ethiopia and Kenya while maintaining sovereignty and non-interference.

Challenges He Would Face

Despite his strong credentials, Sheikh Sharif would confront significant challenges:

• Entrenched Corruption: Years of weak governance have normalized corruption at multiple levels.
• Fragmented Security Forces: Integrating clan militias and improving command unity would require patience and reform.
• Al-Shabaab’s Resilience: The group’s rural entrenchment and asymmetric warfare remain formidable threats.
• Political Polarization: Deep divisions between federal and state leaders could hinder reforms.
• Youth Unemployment: Over 70% of Somalis are under 30, and unemployment continues to fuel radicalization.

However, Sheikh Sharif’s proven integrity, grassroots connections, and moderate Islamic credentials make him uniquely qualified to tackle these issues. His record of fighting corruption, promoting merit-based appointments, and working with both traditional elders and modern institutions provides him a strong foundation to overcome obstacles that have defeated less experienced leaders.

Conclusion

Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed stands out as a leader of experience, moderation, and reconciliation. His past accomplishments defeating Al-Shabaab in the capital, rebuilding core institutions, and overseeing the first peaceful democratic transition in Somalia’s modern history prove his capability and patriotism.

If elected once again, Sheikh Sharif could lead Somalia toward the final liberation from terrorism, restoration of social trust, and economic transformation. With his blend of religious legitimacy, political experience, and deep understanding of Somalia’s complex social fabric, he is exceptionally positioned to guide the nation toward a new era of peace, unity, and prosperity.