MOGADISHU — Somali scholar and politician Professor /Senator Abdi Ismail Samatar has criticized the country’s opposition leaders for accepting Turkey’s role as a mediator in political talks with the federal government, describing the move as a major strategic error.
In a statement titled “Today’s Irony in Mogadishu,” Samatar commented on a recent meeting between representatives of Somalia’s federal government and opposition figures held at the Turkish Hotel inside Aden Adde International Airport, where Turkish officials helped facilitate preliminary discussions.
Samatar said many Somalis remain hopeful that dialogue can produce a peaceful political settlement and lead to a credible electoral process capable of resolving the country’s prolonged political tensions.
However, he argued that the opposition weakened its own position by accepting mediation from Turkey, questioning Ankara’s ability to act as a neutral facilitator in Somalia’s political disputes.
Samatar said it was “exceptionally ironic” for opposition groups to rely on Turkey as a mediator while, in his view, the Turkish government has faced criticism over its handling of domestic political opposition.
The professor also expressed concern over Somalia’s internal political climate, warning that continued disputes between the federal government and regional actors could deepen divisions and increase instability.
He pointed to developments in Baidoa and what he described as efforts to isolate Puntland as examples of political decisions that could worsen tensions, accusing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration of pursuing approaches that risk undermining national unity.
Despite his criticism, Samatar emphasized the importance of dialogue and peaceful political engagement, saying Somalia’s challenges require active participation from citizens and leaders rather than reliance on external solutions alone.
“Prayers alone are not enough. Wake up!” Samatar wrote, urging Somalis to take greater responsibility in shaping the country’s political future.
Turkey, along with other international partners, has been involved in efforts to encourage dialogue between Somalia’s federal government and opposition leaders amid disagreements over elections, constitutional reforms and the country’s political direction.
The latest comments add to ongoing debate in Somalia over the role of foreign partners in domestic political affairs and the best path toward stability and democratic development.
