Building Bridges or Burning Them? The Upcoming National Consultation Forum in Somalia
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As the clock ticks down to the much-anticipated national consultation forum in Somalia, President Mohamud has been busy laying the groundwork. In the lead-up to this critical meeting, he held a series of consultations, engaging with civil society representatives, political party leaders, and revered elders of the community. “We want this forum to be a platform for honest dialogue—not limited to politicians, but open to all segments of Somali society,” he emphasized during a heartfelt meeting with civil society groups in early June.
Despite these well-intentioned efforts, skepticism looms large among opposition parties. Several groups, particularly those affiliated with the Somali Salvation Forum, have banded together to issue a joint statement, outlining specific preconditions they believe are necessary for meaningful dialogue. Among these demands are the establishment of a jointly organized technical committee to set the forum’s agenda and timeline, a steadfast commitment to focus strictly on constitutional and electoral matters, and full inclusion of all leaders from federal member states.
“The president’s call must not become another symbolic gesture,” the opposition firmly asserted. “Without genuine guarantees of inclusivity and transparency, this forum risks repeating the mistakes of the past.” This statement raises pertinent questions about how far the current administration is willing to go in genuinely involving all parties in the discussion. Will this be a unifying moment for Somalia, or a mere echo of previous failed attempts?
The absence of leaders from Northeastern State and Jubaland has added fuel to the fire of skepticism surrounding the forum’s national legitimacy. These two regions have had a tumultuous relationship with the federal government, particularly after Northeastern State rejected controversial constitutional amendments passed by parliament in 2024. Subsequently, the region suspended its cooperation with Mogadishu—a decision that echoes like a distant thundercloud—signaling deep cracks in unity.
In a recent announcement, Northeastern State made it clear that it would not attend the upcoming forum. President Said Abdullahi Deni expressed concerns, labeling the event a “fruitless” exercise. Instead, he advocates for a more comprehensive national summit that would include not just federal and regional leaders, but also former presidents and influential figures in politics. In his own words, “Somalia does not need consultative gatherings where decisions are predetermined by one side. We need joint decision-making forums where all parties share responsibility.”
Deni’s perspective raises another pivotal question: What constitutes effective dialogue in a fragmented political landscape? Should leaders be compelled to come together only at the behest of the federal government, or should there be a more organic approach to collaboration among diverse factions? The answer may very well lie in the need for true consensus-building and a commitment to transparent communication.
Furthermore, Deni urged international partners to continue their supportive role, pointing out that the National Consultative Council (NCC) has effectively become defunct. He argues that it should be replaced with a broader, consensus-based mechanism capable of tackling Somalia’s myriad political challenges. This plea for international backing resonates deeply, as it echoes the experiences of many nations grappling with similar predicaments of governance and inclusion.
Meanwhile, Jubaland’s President Ahmed Madobe remains tight-lipped about his attendance, having previously boycotted federal-level discussions to voice grievances over perceived marginalization. One can’t help but wonder: How many opportunities for impact will be missed if regional leaders continue to disengage from the dialogue?
In the face of this complexity, traditional elders have stepped up, issuing a clarion call for all parties to engage with one another. In a statement released last Sunday, they warned that deepening political fragmentation could severely derail Somalia’s journey toward constitutional stability and democratic reform. “This forum is a vital opportunity to unify, not divide,” they asserted, reminding everyone of the stakes involved.
As the national consultation forum approaches, it finds itself at a crossroads. Somalia is preparing for a new electoral cycle that leads to the pivotal 2026 elections. The country feels the pressing weight of both domestic and international actors urging the finalization of the provisional constitution. Can this forum serve as a springboard for building a more transparent and inclusive political framework? Or will it descend into yet another missed opportunity?
In conclusion, one must reflect: Is this dialogue really about healing divides within Somali society, or merely a stage for political theater? The stakes are high, and the need for unity has never been more critical. With the right approach and a commitment to inclusivity, this forum could turn out to be a defining moment for Somalia’s future.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring
