Federal Government and Opposition talks to resume in Mogadishu

Negotiations between the Federal Government and the Opposition are set to restart, with ongoing disputes particularly around national elections still dividing parts of the Opposition as well, according to sources close to the discussions.

The United States and the United Kingdom are reportedly encouraging both sides to come back to the negotiating table and seek agreement on a way forward for Somalia’s elections.

The push reportedly comes after the Federal Government and some members of the Opposition signaled support for an election model they consider feasible to implement in the country.

The most recent talks involving Turkey as a mediator indicated growing alignment, especially after the perceived momentum around the indirect election process that parts of the Opposition had been advocating. However, disagreements emerged over how a direct election should be conducted and what structure it would take.

These new negotiations could differ from previous rounds, with more focus on senior leadership bringing parties closer. While earlier meetings may have been attended by representatives, it is suggested that top officials from the Federal Government, the Future Council, and other opposition groups may be directly involved this time.

Meanwhile, reports say the Presidents of the Puntland and Jubbaland administrations will travel to Mogadishu to participate in the ongoing, direct discussions on the election process, as described by multiple sources.

The Federal Government maintains that nationwide direct elections are the only workable option, pointing to elections that have already taken place in Banaadir and South West regions. At the same time, attention remains fixed on Galmudug and Hirshabelle, where key concerns continue to influence the debate.

Mustaqbal