Sunday March 30, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) – Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, ex-Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and opposition lawmaker Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame have welcomed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s call for a consultation forum, describing the initiative as a positive step toward political consensus and national unity.
In a joint statement released Sunday, the opposition leaders said they view the forum as an opportunity to forge a collective vision for Somalia’s future and to strengthen cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
“We welcome the consultation forum called by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and we consider it a step in the right direction,” the statement said.
The leaders urged the President to provide clarity on the forum’s agenda, timing, and structure to ensure it is productive, inclusive, and results-driven.
“The threats of terrorism and the political transformation taking place in the region and the world require compromise, rational decision-making, and realism to safeguard Somalia’s sovereignty and stability,” the statement continued.
The President’s invitation has also been welcomed by the Jubbaland administration, which praised the move as a gesture toward inclusive governance and peacebuilding.
However, Puntland’s position remains unclear. President Said Abdullahi Deni has yet to comment on whether he will attend the forum, amid recent tensions between Puntland and the federal government.
President Mohamud’s call for dialogue comes at a critical moment as Somalia continues a major military campaign against Al-Shabaab. The federal government has regained territory in Galmudug, Hirshabelle, and Lower Shabelle, backed by local militias and international partners. Despite these gains, Al-Shabaab remains entrenched in rural areas and continues to launch asymmetric attacks, underscoring the need for sustained political and military coordination.
