The Somali Salvation Forum: A Call for Inclusive Dialogue

Mogadishu (AX) – As the anticipation builds for the upcoming national consultation conference, scheduled to commence on June 15, 2025, in Mogadishu, the Somali Salvation Forum—a coalition predominantly comprising opposition members—has articulated a series of pivotal preconditions for their involvement. This gathering, heralded by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, offers a rare opportunity for dialogue, yet it simultaneously raises questions about the sincerity and inclusivity of the process.

In a recent statement released after thoughtful internal discussions on Sunday, the Forum made it abundantly clear: the success of this meeting hinges on its ability to foster genuine inclusivity and a focus on solutions. They cautioned that if there isn’t a cohesive framework in place, the conference risks falling short of addressing the profound political, security, and economic crises that Somalia faces.

Three Essential Preconditions

The Forum delineated three key conditions that must be satisfied for their participatory commitment. The first condition emphasizes the need for a platform aimed at forging enduring political solutions. Somalia’s ongoing political conflicts are not merely bureaucratic challenges; they’re matters of national importance. The Forum envisions an atmosphere that prioritizes constitutional review and strategizing robust, transparent elections at both federal and regional levels. “The path to peace is paved with dialogue,” they stressed, urging collaboration to eradicate the blight of terrorism, particularly spotlighting groups like Al-Shabaab and ISIS.

The second condition underscores the necessity of inclusivity. The Forum insists that every Federal Member State leader and opposition figure must have a seat at the table—not just those aligned with the current government. This is a critical concern: how can we expect to make progress when only a select few voices are heard? An anecdote comes to mind about a small town where a community discussion on improving local resources turned into a divisive debate simply because not everyone was invited. It’s a grim reminder of how exclusion can breed resentment and stifle solutions.

Finally, the third condition calls for a well-defined and detailed agenda to be circulated well in advance of the conference. Transparency is key here. The Forum’s leadership is keenly aware that uncertainty can lead to mistrust and skepticism. As they aptly put it, “An informed participant is an empowered participant.” This kind of preparation is not only practical, it’s essential for establishing a constructive and respectful dialogue.

Commitment to National Unity

The Forum’s statement reflects a robust commitment to national unity and genuine dialogue. They articulated their readiness to engage in “authentic discussions that promote the salvation of the Somali nation and break the political deadlock.” It’s an intriguing proposition; how often do we see the words “salvation” and “dialogue” used in tandem? It suggests a deeper yearning for a collective healing, one that might transcend partisan lines and push toward a shared vision for Somalia’s future.

Meanwhile, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud previously announced this national Forum as a platform aimed at cultivating consensus on vital state-building issues. These issues include security, democratization, constitutional finalization, and reconciliation. It raises a pressing question: can such a platform genuinely fulfill its promise without the urgent involvement of diverse perspectives? A technical committee, spearheaded by the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, has been tasked with orchestrating this vital event. The stakes couldn’t be higher; the future of Somalia hangs in the balance.

Looking Ahead

As we inch closer to the June conference, one can’t help but wonder whether the principles outlined by the Somali Salvation Forum will be honored. Will the meeting serve as a true platform for collaborative dialogue, or will it revert to echoing only the voices of the powerful? In moments of waiting, like the calm before a storm, our collective hopes and anxieties mingle. Will this be the turning point Somalia’s been waiting for?

Ultimately, it’s a shared journey we embark on as we navigate these complex waters. As the Somali nation seeks solutions to its multifaceted struggles, the choices made now will shape the landscape of tomorrow. Dialogue needs to be more than just a word; it must manifest as an action—an action rooted in respect, openness, and an unyielding commitment to the nation’s welfare.

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.