Kismayo, Somalia — The Somali Opposition Council Conference officially opened on Tuesday afternoon in Kismayo, the capital of Jubaland, bringing together opposition leaders, regional presidents, and senior political figures to deliberate on the country’s political situation.
The conference was attended by leaders of the Jubaland and Puntland administrations, alongside prominent opposition politicians. Discussions during the opening session focused on Somalia’s future, including the current political environment, national security, and the electoral process, as the country approaches the end of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s term.
Organizers said the gathering is expected to result in key political decisions amid heightened uncertainty over Somalia’s political transition. Participants emphasized the urgency of addressing governance challenges and reaching consensus on the path forward.
The Somali Future Council is also expected to announce new leadership for the forum during this phase of the conference. Among the figures reportedly under consideration are former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam, commonly known as Ahmed Madoobe.
Electoral issues feature prominently on the conference agenda, with the Council expressing strong opposition to the federal government’s proposed one-person, one-vote electoral system. The Council also raised concerns over proposed constitutional amendments and potential term extensions, calling on the Somali public to actively participate in safeguarding the country’s political future and direction.
