MOGADISHU, Somalia — President Hassan Sheikh, accompanied by Senior Somali government officials and opposition leaders, are set to meet in Mogadishu today for talks aimed at resolving a growing dispute over elections and constitutional changes.
The meeting is mediated by international partners, and it comes amid rising tensions between the federal government and the opposition coalition known as the Somali Salvation Council, which has accused the administration of undermining the country’s previous constitutional framework and pushing ahead with disputed electoral reforms.
Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama are representing the federal government at the talks.
The opposition delegation includes former Somali president Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, Said Abdullahi Deni and Somali Future Council Secretary Abdirahman Aynte.
Representatives from the United Nations, the European Union, the United States and the United Kingdom are also expected to attend, with diplomats playing a role in facilitating discussions between the rival sides.
The talks are expected to focus on easing political tensions, strengthening cooperation among Somali stakeholders and seeking agreement on a framework for future elections.
Somalia has faced recurring disputes over elections and constitutional reforms as the Horn of Africa nation seeks to stabilize its political institutions after decades of conflict and insecurity.
