UN Envoy Visits Galmudug, Calls for Unity and Inclusive Talks Before Vital Somali Summit

Dhusamareb (AX) — On a momentous Tuesday, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Representative for Somalia, James Swan, set foot in Dhusamareb. This visit marks the beginning of a critical mission, as Swan is slated to continue his journey to Northeastern State and Jubbaland later this week. His presence underscores the urgency of the matters at hand in Somalia.

During his time in Dhusamareb, Swan engaged in meaningful discussions with the President of Galmudug State, Ahmed Abdi Karie, affectionately known as “Qoor Qoor.” Together, they explored pressing national and local issues that are not only vital to Somalis but critical for the nation’s future. Among the topics of discussion were security coordination, the importance of inclusive political dialogue, and the preparations surrounding the much-delayed National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting.

The dialogue took on a sense of shared urgency when Swan and President Qoor Qoor emphasized the necessity of a cohesive approach. “We urge a prompt assembly of the Government, Federal Member State leaders, and various political and societal stakeholders,” they declared. The goal? To forge a unified and effective response to the ongoing threat posed by Al-Shabaab, which they identified as an urgent national security priority. Isn’t it interesting how the actions of a few can ripple through an entire nation, creating a chorus of voices longing for peace and stability?

This visit came on the heels of a significant joint statement released in early April by the United Nations and 27 other international partners. They voiced robust support for President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s commendable Eid-al-Fitr proposal, which called for the establishment of a national dialogue platform. The initiative aims to weave together federal and regional leaders, political stakeholders, and members of civil society. The ultimate goal is not only to strengthen the fight against terrorism but also to build a mutually beneficial consensus on Somalia’s democratic and federal transition.

“A unified and inclusive strategy is indispensable to achieving success against Al-Shabaab and advancing Somalia’s state-building priorities,” the statement articulated. It elicited positive responses from leading Somali political figures, indicating a rare moment of unity amid the challenges that the country faces. But how often do we see such convergences in our own lives? When faced with adversity, is the community not our best ally?

The urgency in Swan’s discussions extended to the need for electoral planning and political inclusivity—a cornerstone of the planned transition to a one-person, one-vote electoral system. This transition is not merely a technical adjustment but a profound shift in how governance may be perceived and executed. Swan reiterated the importance of consensus-based decision-making, inviting all Federal Member States to join in this critical dialogue. The collective wisdom gathered through such discussions could serve as a guiding light illuminating the path to a more stable and democratic Somalia.

However, the anticipation surrounding the NCC summit, originally set to unfold on Thursday in Mogadishu, has shifted. A recent announcement from Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre’s office revealed that the summit has been postponed to Monday, May 5. Notably, this decision came as a unanimous agreement among national leaders, though details surrounding the delay have yet to be disclosed. What do you think influences such delays? Is it a lack of preparation, or perhaps a deeper political rift?

In the midst of mounting challenges, sources reveal that the federal government is actively seeking to re-engage Northeastern State and Jubbaland. Their absence from recent NCC meetings has illuminated the growing political fractures within the federal structure—fractures that can hinder progress and stability. One can’t help but wonder: What will it take to bridge these divides? How do we foster an environment where dialogue can thrive, despite the shadows of mistrust?

As James Swan continues his journey through Northeastern State and Jubbaland, one can hope that his efforts will not only contribute to discussions around security and politics but also evoke a greater sense of community among Somalia’s diverse stakeholders. Perhaps this journey is not just about addressing immediate concerns but about laying the groundwork for a more unified, resilient future.

In times like these, fostering understanding, patience, and collaboration could turn the tide for Somalia’s socio-political landscape. After all, isn’t striving for unity a goal worth pursuing for the sake of future generations?

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.