UN Backs Somali President’s Call for Talks to Resolve Election Impasse

MOGADISHU, Somalia — The United Nations Transition Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) on Sunday threw its support behind President Hassan Sheikh’s appeal for political stakeholders to gather for a high-level consultative meeting, a move aimed at breaking the country’s extended political stalemate.

In a statement posted on social media, the UN mission said the proposed summit offers a vital chance to build a common approach on key national questions that have kept the government and opposition at odds for months.

“UNTMIS welcomes the invitation by the Federal Government of Somalia to the National Future Council to hold a meeting to seek a way forward on critical national issues,” the statement said.

The mission called on all parties involved to approach the talks in good faith, stressing that the welfare of the Somali people must come first. It also underlined that meaningful dialogue and broad participation are necessary if the current political disagreements are to be resolved.

Reaffirming its role in Somalia’s peace efforts, the UN mission said it stands ready to back Somali-led initiatives, working alongside international partners to help secure political consensus and durable stability.

The dialogue initiative, first announced by Somalia’s president, has already received backing from the European Union. Still, leaders of the National Future Council, a major opposition bloc, have not yet said whether they will accept the invitation or turn it down.

AXADLETM