MOGADISHU — Somalia is entering a decisive political phase as disagreements over the country’s electoral process deepen, raising fresh concerns about stability, institutional trust and the timely organization of credible elections.
A high-level forum scheduled for Thursday in Mogadishu is expected to convene senior government officials, opposition leaders, civil society representatives, traditional elders and political analysts to examine the ongoing electoral impasse and propose practical steps toward resolving it.
The meeting comes at a time of heightened tensions between the federal government and several opposition groups, who remain divided over key issues including the electoral model, the composition and independence of electoral management bodies, and the timeline for holding the vote.
Former foreign minister Former foreign minister Mohamed is set to headline the discussions, where he is expected to present a detailed assessment of the political landscape. According to organizers, his remarks will focus on the structural and political challenges that continue to delay progress, including lack of trust among stakeholders, weak institutional coordination, and persistent security threats from armed groups.
He is also expected to stress that Somalia cannot afford another prolonged political stalemate, warning that delays or unilateral decisions could undermine constitutional processes and weaken public confidence in governance. Abdirizak is likely to call for an immediate return to inclusive dialogue involving federal and regional leaders, as well as opposition representatives, to reach a broadly accepted electoral agreement.
Participants at the forum are expected to debate several possible pathways forward, including revisiting previously agreed electoral frameworks, strengthening the role of independent institutions, and introducing safeguards to enhance transparency and accountability throughout the process.
The discussions will also address the security environment, which remains a major concern in organizing nationwide elections. Despite progress in stabilizing parts of the country, threats from militant groups and localized conflicts continue to pose risks to both voters and electoral officials.
International partners are closely monitoring developments and are expected to play an indirect role in encouraging dialogue. Diplomats have repeatedly called on Somali leaders to prioritize consensus, warning that failure to do so could jeopardize political stability and international support.
Somalia has faced recurring electoral disputes over the past decade, often resulting in delayed timelines and political stand-offs that have tested the resilience of state institutions. Analysts say the current reflects deeper structural issues, including power-sharing tensions and disagreements over federalism.
While the forum is not expected to produce immediate agreements, it is seen as an important platform for rebuilding trust and generating momentum toward a negotiated solution.
As Somalia approaches a crucial electoral period, the stakes remain high. The ability of political leaders to compromise and agree on a clear, inclusive and transparent electoral roadmap will be critical in determining the country’s political trajectory and its efforts to strengthen democratic governance after decades of conflict.
