MOGADISHU — Somali opposition leaders held a closed-door meeting with Turkey’s ambassador to Somalia at the residence of former president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed in Mogadishu, sources familiar with the discussions said on Thursday.
The meeting, described by participants as “sensitive,” centered on appeals for Turkey to refrain from involvement in Somalia’s escalating internal political tensions. Sources close to the opposition said the talks reflected growing unease over the role of international partners in the country’s fragile political landscape.
Attendees engaged in what insiders called “intense discussions,” raising concerns that external actors could inadvertently influence Somalia’s domestic political trajectory at a time of heightened uncertainty.
The talks come amid a series of recent opposition gatherings in the capital aimed at coordinating a unified stance against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. Opposition leaders argue that his constitutional term is set to expire on May 15 and have called for a clear transition process.
The federal government has rejected those claims, pointing to proposed constitutional amendments that would allow for a one-year extension of its mandate. The move has been strongly opposed by critics, who accuse the authorities of undermining democratic norms and delaying electoral processes.
Turkey — a longstanding ally of Somalia with major investments in security cooperation, infrastructure development and humanitarian assistance — has not publicly commented on the reported meeting.
Analysts say Ankara’s position will be closely watched, as it maintains significant influence in Somalia through military training programs, development projects and diplomatic engagement.
