Mogadishu – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with a group of opposition leaders on Wednesday at the Presidential Palace in Mogadishu, as part of ongoing efforts to build consensus through the National Dialogue initiative launched earlier this month.
The meeting included prominent figures from opposition parties, former senior government officials, and influential political actors. According to a statement from the presidency, the talks aimed to “promote inclusive political engagement and foster a unified approach to national priorities.”
President Mohamud emphasized the importance of dialogue and collaboration, particularly in addressing key issues such as the constitutional review process, electoral reforms, national reconciliation, and the fight against terrorism.
“We must put national interest above political differences and work together for a stable and democratic Somalia,” the President said during the meeting.
Opposition leaders welcomed the opportunity for open engagement and urged for the dialogue process to be transparent, inclusive, and followed by actionable outcomes. Several of them reiterated the need for greater political freedoms, institutional reforms, and improved cooperation between the federal government and member states.
The National Dialogue initiative comes at a critical time as Somalia prepares for a new electoral framework and seeks to strengthen federal institutions while contending with security threats and economic challenges.
The President’s office confirmed that further consultations will continue in the coming days, including with representatives from federal member states, civil society organizations, and youth and women’s groups.
