Electoral Politics and Violence in Somalia: Implications for Livability in Mogadishu

This article examines the hitherto unexplored violence that resulted from indirect electoral politics in Mogadishu. It highlights the strategic ways in which the political elites in Mogadishu have, on the one hand, deployed violence to attract attention from the international community and, on the other hand, kept the confrontation at a pace that would not lead to a city-wide breakdown in law and order. I argue that these opportunistic politics generate attitudes, actions, and counteractions that undermine efforts aimed at advancing the ongoing political settlement and state (re) formation in Somalia. I also argue that if this opportunistic politics is to be ended, the focus must be placed on the creation of legitimate and robust power production processes in a way that restores trust among the political elites, particularly confidence in and respect for the rules of the game. The article relies on data gathered through key informant interviews, personal observation and insight, and media monitoring.