MOGADISHU — Somalia’s Federal Government and the opposition alliance, the Somali Future Council (Kutlada Mustaqbal), have reached a preliminary understanding to convene a highly anticipated consultative conference at the presidential palace in Mogadishu.
According to reliable sources with knowledge of the discussions, the breakthrough followed a proposal by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Both parties demonstrated a willingness to compromise to establish the necessary conditions for formal dialogue. Technical discussions are currently ongoing to finalize logistical arrangements and ensure the conference can be officially launched in the coming days.
The Decale Breakthrough
The agreement was solidified on Tuesday when President Hassan Sheikh hosted a strategic lunch at the Decale Hotel, located within the secure airport complex. The gathering brought together politicians from the Future Council and members of the technical organizing committee.
Described as a vital preliminary step, the lunch-meeting outcome highlighted mutual concessions and efforts to build trust before broader negotiations commence. Following the meeting, representatives from both the government and the opposition confirmed they had resolved several disputed matters, most notably agreeing on the venue for the dialogue.
Engaging Regional Leaders
In a parallel diplomatic effort, Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre held a private meeting late Tuesday with Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni and Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe). The discussions focused on rallying support to ensure the consultative conference proceeds without further delays.
This preliminary agreement is widely considered a significant step toward reducing long-standing political tensions and preventing a complete breakdown in communication between the federal government and opposition figures regarding the upcoming electoral process.
