Galmudug Delegation Returns to Mogadishu as Election Deal Efforts Intensify

MOGADISHU, Somalia — A delegation of senior Somali politicians and former legislators has returned to Mogadishu after several days of closed-door talks in Dhuusamareeb with Galmudug President Ahmed Abdi Kaariye “Qoorqoor,” according to people familiar with the discussions.

The group, made up largely of political figures from the Galmudug region, had been shuttling messages between regional and federal players as part of a wider effort to ease tensions and build a path toward agreement, the sources said.

One of the central points on the table, according to those briefed on the talks, was a proposal that Qoorqoor be permitted to contest the next elections under a separate political party. Also under discussion were the makeup and independence of the electoral commission, an issue that has repeatedly surfaced in Somalia’s political bargaining. The meetings were also said to be part of a broader attempt to open direct communication between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Qoorqoor.

Even so, the Dhuusamareeb talks were described as unfinished, with sticking points remaining over political guarantees, election impartiality and demands tied to regional autonomy, the sources added.

In a separate development, confidential sources in Villa Somalia said federal officials met on Sunday with Liibaan Axmed, a political figure viewed as a possible player in Galmudug-related arrangements. Those talks reportedly centered on the shifting political landscape in Galmudug, though no official details were released.

At the same time, business leaders have also weighed in, calling for a negotiated settlement to the dispute over Galmudug’s political future, especially the question of Qoorqoor’s role. They are said to be pressing for a final deal before the first week of June.

Neither the federal government nor Galmudug authorities have publicly addressed the reported discussions.

AXADLETM