Northeastern State Bows Out of Federal Dialogue Forum, Citing Constitutional Issues

Garowe (AX) — In a significant turn of events, the Northeastern State regional administration has made an official announcement that it will abstain from participating in the upcoming national consultation forum convened by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The reasons behind this decision are rooted in claims of constitutional violations and a perceived lack of genuine commitment from the central government towards a federalist approach.

During a recent press conference, Northeastern State’s Minister of Justice, Mohamed Abdiwahaab, articulated the province’s position with both clarity and resolve. He stated that Northeastern State will not engage in any discussions with the Federal Government until it reverts to what he categorized as a lawful and inclusive political process. “Northeastern State will not engage in talks with the Federal Government until it recommits to statehood and acknowledges a genuine national consultation framework,” the minister expressed, sentiment tinged with frustration and conviction.

He elaborated on a series of specific conditions that must be met for Northeastern State to reconsider its stance. These prerequisites include a return to the constitutional agreement reached in August 2012, acknowledgment that the National Consultative Council (NCC) has become politically biased, agreement on a consensual and inclusive national electoral process, and the acceptance of outcomes from the elections that occurred in Jubbaland State. Each of these points speaks not only to legal obligations but also to the emotional undercurrents of trust and mutual respect that much of Somalia’s political landscape seems to lack.

Abdiwahaab did not shy away from voicing his concerns regarding the federal leadership. He accused the government of ignoring its constitutional duties and failing to heed public sentiments over the past three years. With a heavy heart, he remarked that the current administration, under the leadership of President Hassan Sheikh, is “on the wrong path.” One can’t help but wonder, what does “the wrong path” look like, and who exactly determines the right one? In a nation so rich with cultural diversity and complexity, these questions loom larger than the impending discussions.

This declaration comes just days after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud announced the commencement of the Political and Community Leaders’ Forum, set to unfold in Mogadishu on June 15, 2025. The forum is envisioned as a platform for dialogue, aimed at fostering trust and enhancing cooperation among the political and community leaders of Somalia. “The forum is an important opportunity to strengthen unity and accelerate the country’s development,” President Hassan Sheikh stated during the announcement, projecting an optimistic vision for Somalia’s future.

However, as Northeastern State takes a definitive stance against participating in this initiative, it raises pertinent questions about the nature of inclusivity and representation in a society yearning for unity. While the Northeastern State administration has decided to withdraw, they are joined by the underlying complexities of Somali politics that are filled with intricate alliances and rivalries. Interestingly, several opposition figures and political parties have already committed to attending the forum, creating a rich tapestry of perspectives that could either challenge or complement the discussions ahead.

Indeed, it’s worth reflecting on the essence of dialogue within a nation characterized by divergent views and histories. Can authentic unity be achieved if certain key voices, such as those from Northeastern State, choose to remain on the sidelines? In a nation where the scars of conflict still run deep, one must ask: Is effective governance possible without the buy-in of local entities? Or conversely, is insisting on preconditions a legitimate exercise in safeguarding regional autonomy?

History often teaches us that dialogue, no matter how flawed or imperfect, is still a critical step toward healing and rebuilding trust. There’s an anecdote I’ve come across, a saying that goes, ‘A broken pot can still hold water if repaired with care.’ Could Northeastern State’s reluctance to engage be seen as a necessary safeguard against repeating past mistakes, or is it a missed opportunity for bridging divides?

Ultimately, the landscape is anything but straightforward. As Somali leaders prepare for dialogue in the capital, the stakes remain high. Unity, trust, and genuine commitment to a federalist framework remain crucial if the promise of a peaceful coexistence is to be realized. Thoughts linger in the air like faint echoes—what will it take to heal these divides and build a more cohesive Somalia? How can the government extend an olive branch while honoring the legitimate concerns of regional leaders?

As the situation develops, one can only hope that there will be moments of clarity amidst the chaos for the sake of a nation that continues to long for stability and community.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.