Wednesday July 8, 2026
Mogadishu (AX) — A fresh push to break Somalia’s political deadlock gathered pace in Mogadishu on Tuesday, as representatives of the federal government and an opposition bloc headed by former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo agreed to keep an inclusive dialogue process alive.
In a joint statement, the two sides said the discussions focused on strengthening political stability, improving security and supporting sustainable development.
“The meeting, which took place in a calm atmosphere, enabled all parties to have an open, transparent, and effective exchange of views,” the statement said.
The parties also expressed appreciation to Turkey, citing what they called Ankara’s tireless efforts to support and facilitate the continuing negotiations.
Sources close to the process said a Turkish delegation has been holding separate meetings with committees from the federal government and the opposition before expected face-to-face talks later this week under the leadership of Western representatives.
The contacts are part of a renewed diplomatic effort to settle Somalia’s electoral dispute, which has persisted after earlier mediation initiatives failed to secure a breakthrough.
The opposition, organized under the Somali Future Council, had earlier rejected negotiations led solely by Turkey, saying Ankara was not regarded as a trusted mediator by both camps.
Informed sources said Turkey is now coordinating with Western representatives in an effort to rebuild confidence between the government and opposition and improve prospects for a political settlement.
The federal government and opposition remain at odds over how Somalia’s electoral process should move forward.
Opposition figures have accused the government of attempting to steer the process without broad political agreement, while the government says it is committed to moving Somalia toward direct elections through legal and constitutional institutions.
