Mogadishu — Outgoing Swedish Ambassador to Somalia, Joachim Waern, underscored the significance of Wednesday’s closed-door meeting between opposition presidential hopefuls and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, describing it as a “vital step toward national unity and stability.”
The meeting, held at Villa Somalia today and attended by key political figures under the Somali Salvation Forum led by former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, focused on issues at the core of Somalia’s political future — including the 2026 electoral model, constitutional reforms, and intensified counterterrorism operations against Al-Shabaab.
In a statement following the gathering, Waern noted that sustained and meaningful dialogue among Somalia’s political elite is crucial for safeguarding the country’s democratic process and averting political fragmentation.
“Constructive engagement is the path to a stronger, more resilient Somalia,” the diplomat said, expressing hope that all sides would work in a spirit of compromise to produce solutions for the country’s most urgent challenges.
The remarks come as Somalia prepares for a pivotal election cycle and deepens its fight against extremist threats, while also looking to finalize constitutional amendments and establish a stable legal and political framework. Observers say the ambassador’s comments reflect the international community’s encouragement for Somali leaders to put aside political differences in the interest of long-term stability and progress.
As Waern prepares to conclude his diplomatic tenure, his emphasis on inclusive dialogue and national consensus underscores the broader international call for Somali leaders to foster enduring cooperation in order to achieve sustainable peace and democratic consolidation.