Mogadishu – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has extended invitations to former presidents, prime ministers, parliamentary speakers, and ex-regional leaders for a national dialogue scheduled for June 15.
However, the move has sparked controversy after current federal member state leaders, including Jubbaland’s Ahmed Madobe and Puntland authorities, were excluded from the invite list.
The exclusion of sitting leaders from Jubbaland and Puntland — two key federal member states — has drawn sharp criticism from opposition figures.
They have previously warned they would boycott any talks that do not include Puntland’s and Jubbaland’s, arguing that genuine political dialogue cannot occur without full regional representation.
The decision raises fresh questions about the agenda of the upcoming conference and its potential to deliver meaningful outcomes.
Political observers say the absence of current state leadership could undermine the credibility and viability of the national dialogue at a time when Somalia faces significant political and security challenges.
No official explanation has been given for the exclusion.
