MOGADISHU — Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre initiated critical discussions on Thursday evening to alleviate political tensions stemming from recent security measures at Aden Adde International Airport.
The Premier’s outreach comes as preparations advance for anticipated dialogues between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and opposition figures in the capital.
De-escalation Meetings
Prime Minister Hamza visited former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed at his residence in Mogadishu. Officials described the meeting as part of wider initiatives to reduce tensions and protect the proposed discussions between Villa Somalia and representatives from the opposition coalition known as the Council for the Future.
The gathering was also attended by former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire and numerous traditional elders, demonstrating a concerted effort to engage prominent political figures and community representatives in conflict resolution.
Subsequently, the Prime Minister met separately with former Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble, continuing what sources identified as a reconciliation effort designed to rebuild trust.
Context of the Dispute
The diplomatic push follows an incident at the airport involving enhanced security measures that impacted high-ranking politicians attempting to meet with Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe and Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni.
Opposition members criticized the protocols, alleging that federal authorities were utilizing security restrictions at the country’s primary international entry point for political purposes.
In an official statement, Prime Minister Hamza affirmed the federal government’s dedication to negotiations in good faith and expressed readiness to seek a permanent solution to the disagreement.
Upcoming National Dialogue
These efforts occur during a politically delicate period. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is scheduled to host discussions with opposition leaders amidst persistent disagreements regarding:
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Electoral procedures.
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Constitutional amendments.
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Administrative matters.
Political analysts indicate that the airport controversy threatened to overshadow these proposed negotiations. The Prime Minister’s consultations are generally viewed as an attempt to safeguard the possibility of a negotiated political resolution as Somalia confronts urgent security and nation-building obstacles.
