Mogadishu, Somalia – In a rare show of political engagement, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held a closed-door meeting on Tuesday at Villa Somalia with three prominent former Somali leaders — former Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke, ex-Parliament Speaker Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman, and former Southwest State President Sharif Hassan Sheikh Aden.
The gathering, confirmed by sources close to the presidency, came at a time of heightened political tension across the country, as the federal government navigates delicate relations with regional administrations and opposition figures express growing unease over upcoming electoral preparations.
Though the presidency has not issued an official statement, insiders described the talks as “constructive and candid,” focusing on preserving national unity, easing political friction, and strengthening cooperation among Somalia’s veteran political class. The former leaders reportedly emphasized the importance of dialogue and consensus in resolving disputes that could threaten the fragile gains made in governance and security.
The meeting also underscored the President’s broader effort to open channels of communication with past leaders whose influence continues to shape Somalia’s political landscape. Observers say Mohamud’s outreach reflects a calculated attempt to ease tensions and foster inclusivity at a time when political rivalries risk undermining the national reform agenda.
As Somalia prepares for crucial political milestones ahead, including federal elections and ongoing state-building initiatives, Tuesday’s discussions at Villa Somalia signal an acknowledgment that only through unity and dialogue can the nation’s complex challenges be met. The meeting ended on a cordial note, with all participants reportedly agreeing to continue consultations in the coming weeks.