International mediators push for renewed dialogue as political tensions rise over electoral reforms and constitutional disputes.
Western diplomats have intensified mediation efforts in Somalia in a bid to break a growing political deadlock surrounding the country’s electoral process, amid mounting international concern over stalled negotiations between the federal government and opposition groups.
European Union Ambassador to Somalia Francesca Di Mauro held what officials described as a significant meeting with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Mogadishu as part of wider international attempts to revive dialogue among Somalia’s political stakeholders.
Sources familiar with the discussions said President Hassan Sheikh reaffirmed his willingness to return to negotiations with opposition leaders and other political actors who have expressed concerns over the country’s proposed electoral framework and constitutional amendments.
The political dispute has deepened in recent months, with opposition groups accusing the federal government of pursuing unilateral changes to Somalia’s electoral system and constitutional structure without sufficient consensus.
In a move viewed by observers as an effort to ease tensions, the opposition-linked Somali Future Council announced the suspension of planned anti-government mobilisations to create space for renewed political talks.
Diplomatic engagement is also expected to extend beyond the capital. Senior international officials, including the United States ambassador to Somalia, are expected to travel to Garowe later this week for discussions with leaders in Puntland.
The visit is aimed at encouraging Puntland authorities to rejoin broader national consultations after the regional administration strongly criticised the federal government’s political roadmap and proposed constitutional reforms.
The latest diplomatic push has fuelled cautious optimism among Somalis that negotiations between the federal government and opposition groups could resume, potentially reducing political tensions and helping secure a more broadly accepted electoral agreement.
