Somali Presidential Opposition Candidate Dies in France

According to sources close to the family, Professor Mohamed Abdi Mohamed, better known as Professor Gandi, died at a hospital in France. Gandi had been hospitalized in recent days due to illness.

Gandi, was a well-known sociologist and politician and was currently running for president in Somalia.

Professor Gandi’s death was confirmed by Jubbaland President Ahmed Islan Madobe, a half-brother of Gandi.  He said Gandi had been ill in France for days. Madobe said Gandi would be remembered for his role in the formation of the Jubbaland state.

Gandi is best remembered for his numerous researches on Somali history. He has given several lectures on the structure of the various Somali clans, their settlements, and the structure of clan lineage.