Mogadishu (WDN) On the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, the President of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS), Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, extended a call for dialogue to Somali oppositions and community leaders. In his address to the nation, President Hassan emphasized the importance of collective efforts in combating terrorism and establishing a democratic government that upholds the constitution and the rule of law.

Following the President’s appeal, a joint statement was released by prominent opposition leaders, including former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Kheyre, and Member of Parliament Abdirahman Abdishakur. They expressed their support for the proposed dialogue, acknowledging its potential to address key national concerns. However, the opposition leaders also requested further clarity on the agenda, timeline, and participant list to ensure inclusiveness, transparency and effectiveness.

In a similar vein, the President of the Jubaland Regional State, Ahmed Madobe, welcomed the initiative during his Eid prayer address. Madobe reiterated the necessity of inclusive discussions to address the country’s security challenges and political divisions. Meanwhile, Puntland Regional State has yet to issue an official response to the President’s proposal.

It is important to note that relations between the Federal Government and the regional states, particularly Puntland and Jubaland, have been strained. Both states have accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of constitutional violations, undermining the electoral process, and neglecting the agreed federal power-sharing framework. These disputes have heightened political tensions and complicated efforts to maintain a unified approach to governance.

In parallel, Somalia continues to face persistent security threats from terrorist organizations, including Al-Shabaab and ISIS. Notably, Puntland has made significant strides in countering these threats, securing key territories and bolstering regional security. The ongoing efforts by Puntland’s security forces demonstrate the critical role regional states play in ensuring national stability.

President Hassan’s call for dialogue presents an opportunity for stakeholders to engage in constructive discussions aimed at restoring trust, promoting reconciliation, and fostering national unity. For the dialogue to succeed, all parties must commit to open, transparent, and inclusive negotiations, focusing on sustainable solutions that benefit the Somali people as a whole.

WardheerNews