Kismayo, Jubbaland – Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo will not attend a political summit scheduled to begin Thursday in Kismayo, according to opposition figures and lawmakers reported on Wednesday.
Lawmaker Abdirashid Xidig, a member of the House of the People and part of the Somali Salvation Forum, clarified that Farmaajo endorses the summit’s objectives but is not involved in its organization, which accounts for his absence.
“Farmaajo is welcome to join, but he is not a member of the organizing committee,” Xidig informed reporters, rejecting claims that political tensions with Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe influenced the former President’s decision not to attend.
The goal of the Kismayo summit is to unite opposition leaders and representatives from Federal Member States (FMS) to address critical national matters, including preparations for the 2026 elections, political reconciliation, and enhancing national dialogue.
Opposition leaders have previously voiced criticism against the federal government for delays in establishing crucial institutions, including a constitutional court and a complete voter registry, which they believe jeopardize the electoral process.
Despite Farmaajo’s absence, the summit is regarded as a vital chance for opposition leaders to synchronize their political stances and gear up for the forthcoming election cycle.
