MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Somali National Security Adviser, Hussein Moalim, has dismissed claims circulating on social media about ongoing talks between the Somali government and the militant group Al-Shabaab.
Moalim clarified that the government has not initiated any discussions with Al-Shabaab, and emphasized that such talks would only be considered under specific conditions.
He outlined three prerequisites for the Somali government to engage in dialogue with Al-Shabaab: the group must sever its ties with Al-Qaeda, acknowledge the unity and independence of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and commit to pursuing its political objectives peacefully.
The denial comes shortly after President Hassan Sheikh announced in Oslo that his government is open to dialogue, highlighting that the resolution of the conflict with Al-Shabaab will ultimately be achieved through negotiation.
Al-Shabaab, a group affiliated with Al-Qaeda since 2012, has repeatedly rejected the possibility of dialogue with the Somali government, which has been engaged in conflict with the group for over 15 years. The group operates without recognizing the sovereignty, national flag, or borders of Somalia and has been responsible for attacks in neighboring countries.
The United States has designated Al-Shabaab as a terrorist organization and has placed substantial bounties on its top leaders. The US government has also identified AS as a significant threat to its interests in the region and to the security of countries in the Horn of Africa.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Somali government maintains its stance on the conditions for potential dialogue, while Al-Shabaab remains firm in its rejection of such talks. The international community watches closely as the dynamics between the Somali government and AS unfold, with implications for regional stability and security.
