MOGADISHU, Somalia — Talks aimed at addressing Somalia’s security challenges and the path to conducting popular elections resumed on Sunday, despite the continued absence of leaders from Jubaland and Puntland States.
The NCC discussions faced disagreements over the electoral process, which prompted Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe to walk out of it and reject to come back to Mogadishu.
Today’s talks saw the participation of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, and leaders from Galmudug, Southwest, Hirshabelle, as well as the Mayor of Mogadishu.
Jubaland’s President Ahmed Madobe, who exited the talks earlier, insists on an indirect election system, arguing that implementing direct elections would necessitate extending current terms of office, a proposition that has sparked controversy. Jubaland is expected to proceed with its own indirect leadership elections in the coming weeks.
Puntland, another key federal member state, also remains absent from the negotiations, reflecting ongoing disputes over constitutional amendments and the distribution of power and resources between the federal government and the regional states.
The meeting, which marks a critical juncture in Somalia’s efforts to unify security strategies against threats like Al-Shabaab and to forge a consensus on electoral reforms, underscores the deep divisions within the country’s political landscape.
The absence of Jubaland and Puntland continues to cast a shadow over these talks, raising questions about the feasibility of reaching a national agreement on these crucial issues. However, the remaining leaders expressed optimism about forging ahead with the discussions, emphasizing the need for unity in tackling Somalia’s myriad challenges.
The talks are also set to discuss the transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to the newly established African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), planned for early 2025, which aims to bolster Somalia’s security forces.
This renewed dialogue comes at a pivotal time as Somalia navigates its complex political terrain, aiming for stability through inclusive governance and security cooperation.
