Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made a surprise visit to the residence of former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed in Mogadishu on Sunday, marking a rare encounter between two figures whose relationship had soured amid growing disagreements over this year’s planned presidential and parliamentary elections. The meeting occurred as political tensions escalated, with the two former allies now divided on the timeline and direction of the electoral process and the Constitution Review and Amendment Process. According to a statement from Himilo Qaran, the political party headed by the former president, the discussion centered on personal disagreements, which were resolved through mutual agreement. During the talks, President Mohamud expressed readiness to organize a national consultative meeting, a core demand made by opposition groups who previously insisted such a meeting occur before January 20. The president requested that Sharif Sheikh Ahmed contribute significantly to efforts aimed at achieving national consensus and an acceptable agreement through the proposed conference. Mohamud highlighted the value of inclusive discussions and asked for the former president’s assistance in guiding the process toward an outcome with broad support. Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, responded that he was ready to participate in any effort that promotes Somali unity and addresses the current political challenges. He emphasized compromise, unity, and sincere dialogue as essential elements for navigating heightened political uncertainty. The meeting followed an opposition ultimatum issued weeks earlier, which gave the federal government one month to negotiate solutions to election-related disputes or face the prospect of parallel elections that could create a rival administration and worsen the political crisis. While Sunday’s talks focused on personal matters, they represent a significant step in a dispute that has sparked concerns about political fragmentation and stability ahead of upcoming elections.
