MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said he is ready to listen to opposition politicians with differing views on his government, as political tensions rise ahead of the end of the administration’s constitutional term.
Speaking in Mogadishu, Hassan Sheikh said that during his time in opposition there had been no genuine political consultation or dialogue with the government led by former president Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, widely known as Farmaajo.
He said the lack of meaningful engagement at the time had deepened mistrust and political divisions, adding that his administration wanted to avoid repeating the same mistakes.
“I am prepared to listen to politicians who hold different views from my government so that we can strengthen political cooperation in the country,” the president said.
Hassan Sheikh stressed that national stability required inclusive political engagement and consultations among leaders, particularly at a time when Somalia faces major security and constitutional challenges.
His remarks come as the country approaches the end of the government’s constitutional mandate, with debate intensifying over the future political process and electoral arrangements.
Parliament recently approved constitutional amendments that could allow the government to secure a one-year extension of its term, a move that has drawn criticism from opposition figures who argue that broader political consensus is needed before major constitutional changes are implemented.
The issue has added to growing political tensions in Somalia, where disputes over elections and constitutional reforms have previously triggered institutional crises and security concerns.
