MOGADISHU — The embassy of the United States in Somalia has intensified diplomatic efforts to help resolve a deepening political standoff over the country’s electoral process, sources and officials said.
According to reports, the presidents of Puntland and Jubaland — Said Abdullahi Deni and Ahmed Mohamed Islam — are expected to arrive in Mogadishu on May 13 following invitations linked to the US-led mediation push.
Diplomatic sources say the US embassy has reached out to a broad range of Somali stakeholders, including federal member state leaders, opposition figures and members of the Council of Presidential Candidates, in a bid to create conditions for inclusive dialogue and political compromise.
The initiative follows the opposition’s rejection of earlier talks convened by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, highlighting growing mistrust between the federal government and its critics over the direction of the electoral process.
At the heart of the dispute is the government’s plan to move toward a one-person, one-vote system, a shift welcomed in principle but questioned by opposition leaders over its timing, feasibility and the lack of consensus on the legal and institutional framework required to implement it.
Analysts warn that the impasse risks undermining fragile gains made in state-building and security, particularly as Somali forces continue operations against the Al-Shabaab insurgency with support from international partners.
The political tensions have also raised concerns about stability in the capital, Mogadishu, where previous electoral disputes have triggered violence and delayed governance processes.
Sources familiar with the talks say Washington is seeking to play a more active mediation role, encouraging Somali leaders to return to the negotiating table and agree on a credible, broadly accepted electoral roadmap.
The developments come at a critical juncture for Somalia, as the country balances security challenges, constitutional reforms and preparations for future elections, with international partners closely monitoring progress toward political stability.
