MOGADISHU, August 10 — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is set to hold a pivotal meeting with opposition leaders at Villa Somalia on Sunday, as the nation grapples with deepening political divisions over constitutional reforms and the roadmap to the 2026 elections.
The dialogue comes amid mounting criticism from opposition parties over recent amendments to the Transitional Constitution, which they argue were introduced unilaterally and risk undermining public trust in Somalia’s fragile democratic process.
Political experts told Radio Shabelle that the Central to the disagreement is Chapter 4 of the charter, a section that governs core aspects of the country’s political structure.
While the federal government has reiterated its commitment to implementing a one-person, one-vote electoral system by 2026, opposition figures have pushed back, citing persistent insecurity and the absence of a broad-based political consensus as key obstacles.
They argue that any credible electoral process must first be grounded in inclusive dialogue and nationwide stability.
President Hassan Sheikh, who has recently called for greater national unity in confronting threats posed by al-Shabaab, has signaled openness to compromise in pursuit of a shared electoral vision.
Sunday’s talks at the state house are expected to focus on finding common ground without necessarily yielding a final agreement.
Nonetheless, political observers view the meeting as a significant step toward easing tensions and rebuilding trust between Somalia’s divided political camps.
The outcome could shape not only the electoral path ahead, but also the broader effort to strengthen governance in a country still facing complex security and institutional challenges.
