Editorial: A Posed Image Is Not Somali Unity

Editorial- Today marks the opening of a political conference in Mogadishu, uniting leaders from Somalia’s Federal Government and the Federal Member States, such as South West, Galmudug, HirShabelle, the Banadir region, and the newly acknowledged SSC-Khaatumo administration. But let’s pause here. What does this gathering truly represent? Who’s absent, and what can we realistically hope to achieve?

To start, the absence of Northeastern State and Jubaland looms large. Northeastern State has openly rejected the National Consultative Council (NCC), arguing that it lacks constitutional validity. They claim it omits crucial discussions, such as the unlawful interference in the nation’s constitution. Meanwhile, Jubaland pulled out after Villa Somalia allegedly tried to extend its president’s term unconstitutionally.

Is this gathering a sincere effort for national unity, or just a political spectacle designed to protect Villa Somalia’s narrow interests? The questions hang heavily in the air.

Timing, as they say, is everything. And the timing of this meeting couldn’t be more controversial. Concurrently, we’re witnessing escalating conflict in the Middle Shabelle region, where Al-Shabaab militants are seizing new territories. Not to mention, Somalia’s Federal Parliament is in a state of upheaval, with conflicts flaring over the leadership of the Upper House, which many view as becoming an extension of Villa Somalia itself.

Internationally, this fails to be the inclusive summit that Somalia’s partners have long urged. These partners, the backbone of the federal government’s legitimacy, have consistently called for a holistic conference that brings together all federal member states, opposition, and political stakeholders. Their goal? To unite in facing the growing Al-Shabaab threat together. Instead, Mogadishu seems to stage a display meant for foreign eyes, while internally fostering division by sidelining major regions.

The inclusion of SSC-Khaatumo raises eyebrows. Villa Somalia claims this aligns with the local population’s desires, but there are lingering questions. Is the federal government genuinely seeking a stable political solution, or merely using SSC-Khaatumo as leverage against Northeastern State? History ties Northeastern State and SSC closely, so if Villa Somalia is using SSC as a wedge, it could shatter already fragile reconciliation efforts.

Furthermore, the presidents of Galmudug, South West, and HirShabelle attend under term extensions orchestrated by Villa Somalia. This questions their legitimacy and the fairness of representation within the federal member states. How can real agreements be made if the actors present are unmandated?

Amidst this, speculation swirls around Villa Somalia perhaps using this conference to launch a new political party—a party that could push controversial constitutional amendments. Such a move, rather than fostering unity, risks deepening divisions and chipping away at the federal system’s integrity.

Without unity, the very existence of the Somali state hangs precariously. Can we afford to maintain this cycle of political drama?

Consider this: Political unity is more than image—it’s the very fabric that holds a nation together. Dismissing its importance may lead to irreversible consequences.

This editorial represents the opinion of the Axadle Editorial Board. It reflects the board’s analysis and perspective, not that of any individual reporter.