Mogadishu (WDN)– As the call of the consultations proposed by President Hassan circulated for days, drawing mixed reactions, President Hassan met in Mogadishu with regional leaders from South West, Hirshabelle, Galmudug, and the Banadir Region—an engagement notably not attended by Puntland, Jubaland, or opposition politicians. In response, the international community has called for the consultations to be expanded to include all key stakeholders.

Mr. Hussein Sheikh Mohamud, the constitutional affairs advisor to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, confirmed preparations for a critical meeting to address ongoing tensions within Somalia. The upcoming talks will involve leaders from the federal government, Puntland, Jubaland and other regional states, as tensions escalate over key national issues.

“The president spoke on the phone with former leaders and is meeting with heads of state from South West, Galmudug, and Hirshabelle,” said Hussein Sheikh. He emphasized that the meeting will include official invitations to both Puntland and Jubaland, though the participation of these regions has been a point of contention.

The announcement comes after recent disagreements between Puntland and the federal government regarding President Hassan Sheikh’s approach to resolving the country’s issues. Puntland, which has expressed frustration over the president’s actions, has indicated it may not participate in the talks, citing ongoing regional conflicts and security concerns.

Meanwhile, Jubaland has expressed support for the president’s initiative. President Ahmed Madobe recently voiced his approval of the proposed dialogue, calling it a “golden opportunity” to address Somalia’s challenges and foster national unity.

However, Puntland’s response has been more cautious. Puntland’s Minister of Information stated that the region is not ready to join the talks, emphasizing the ongoing state of conflict and accusing President Hassan Sheikh of exacerbating tensions by distributing arms to forces aligned with Daesh.

As preparations continue, the details of the meeting—such as its timing, location, and participants—remain uncertain, with all eyes on Villa Somalia for further announcements.

WardheerNews