AU urges Somali leaders to resume talks after collapse
In a statement, the commission welcomed the fact that both camps had engaged in direct talks, describing the effort as one that served the broader interests of Somalia and its people.
Sunday May 17, 2026
Mogadishu (AX) — Somalia’s stalled political transition has once again drawn urgent attention from the African Union, which on Saturday called on the federal government and opposition leaders to return to the negotiating table after a three-day round of talks in Mogadishu collapsed without a deal.
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The discussions, held from May 13 to 15, brought together the Federal Government of Somalia and representatives of the Somali Future Council. The AU Commission said it had monitored the process closely and expressed regret that the sides failed to reach consensus.
In a statement, the commission welcomed the fact that both camps had engaged in direct talks, describing the effort as one that served the broader interests of Somalia and its people.
The meetings took place as tensions continued to rise over elections, constitutional changes and the direction of the country’s long-running transition. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud led the government delegation, while opposition figures pressed their case across the table.
The AU urged political actors to resist the temptation to dig in, instead calling on them to quickly resume talks that are inclusive and focused on substance.
It said any new round of negotiations should be grounded in sincere engagement, compromise on all sides and full respect for Somalia’s constitutional framework.
The commission also reiterated its commitment to supporting Somalia, including through the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia AUSSOM.
At the same time, the AU praised the mediation efforts of the United Nations, the African Union and bilateral partners, saying sustained and coordinated diplomatic pressure would be necessary to help Somali leaders close the political gap.
The appeal comes after similar calls from the United Nations, following the latest failed talks over Somalia’s electoral system and proposed constitutional amendments. Opposition leaders have accused the federal government of moving ahead with reforms without broad agreement, while officials insist the country should proceed toward one-person, one-vote elections.
