Farmaajo Slams Upcoming National Consultation Forum, Alerts to Rising Political Turmoil

Mogadishu (AX) – In a recent and impactful statement, former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has voiced his deep concerns regarding the upcoming National Consultation Forum convened by current President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This public address, issued on Thursday, revolves around the critical themes of inclusivity and comprehensive stakeholder engagement in the national dialogue.

Farmaajo’s remarks come against a backdrop of increasing anxiety regarding the political climate in Somalia. He has pointedly accused President Mohamud of sidestepping essential stakeholders, instead pushing forward with what he describes as a unilateral agenda. “As we have repeatedly recommended, issues that affect the fate of the Somali people and the governance system must be discussed at all levels — both federal and state — to preserve national unity and cohesion,” Farmaajo asserted, a statement echoing the sentiments of many who seek a more democratically interactive governance approach.

This concern is not just a procedural technicality; it touches the very heart of Somalia’s future. Farmaajo articulated a worry that by excluding essential actors from the conversation, the forum may hinder solutions to persistent and pressing national issues. He specifically highlighted ongoing disputes regarding the remaining 11 chapters of the provisional constitution—a subject that, if mishandled, could lead Somalia into further complexities.

“The President is heading toward a path that will lead the country into a new crisis,” he warned, suggesting that the current trajectory could facilitate unconstitutional amendments lacking broad consensus. This is a notion worth pondering: how often in the political arena do decisions made in isolation, devoid of collective discourse, lead to unforeseen consequences? In Somalia’s history, the refrain of longing for inclusive governance resonates deeply with both the memories of previous administrations and the voices of ordinary citizens who yearn for stability and progress.

In encouraging a more collaborative approach, Farmaajo called for an open dialogue that encompasses all federal and state stakeholders. This includes states like Northeastern State and Jubbaland, whose leaders have had well-documented disagreements with the federal government. It remains uncertain whether these states will attend the forum scheduled to commence on June 15, 2025, in Mogadishu, raising pertinent questions about the implications of their absence for the broader political landscape.

This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of unity in the pursuit of democratic ideals. As Farmaajo urges the current government to revert to the agreed constitutional framework, one can’t help but reflect on the fragility of political consensus in Somalia. How often do we witness the peril of fragmentation—a landscape divided, where agreements fall by the wayside amid power struggles? In navigating such complexities, far-sighted decision-making must prevail over impulsive governance.

His ardent message resonates with many who believe that only through inclusivity can healing begin in a nation that has faced years of turmoil. Farmaajo’s perspective hinges on the notion that in politics, just like in life, every voice matters. Quoting the philosopher Edmund Burke, he emphasized, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” This timeless observation underscores the fundamental need for proactive engagement on all fronts and by all participants in the national dialogue.

In closing, the future of Somalia does not solely rest on the shoulders of its leaders but in the collective effort of its people—every voice, every opinion matters. As stakeholders prepare for the National Consultation Forum, it is important to remember that true progress is born from collaboration and understanding. The path ahead is fraught with challenges, but by choosing dialogue over division, Somalia may navigate toward its aspirations of unity and peace.

As we look toward the future, perhaps it is worth asking: How can we foster inclusive environments in our discussions? What role do we each play in the collective journey toward stability? The answers to these questions might just determine the course of Somalia’s future.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.