MOGADISHU, (HAN) — Former Somali Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke and ex-Minister Dahir Mohamud Geelle, who are serving as envoys for President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, are currently engaged in discussions with former Speaker of Parliament Mohamed Mursal Sheikh Abdirahman at his residence in Mogadishu, following a travel blockade that prevented Mursal and a delegation of lawmakers from flying to Baidoa, the capital of South West State.
According to sources close to the delegation, airlines operating flights to Baidoa refused to transport Mursal and his team, citing reasons that have not been publicly disclosed. The refusal has sparked political tension and raised concerns about access and mobility for high-ranking federal officials attempting to engage with regional leaders.
Negotiations are ongoing to resolve the impasse, with plans reportedly underway to facilitate the delegation’s travel to Baidoa in the coming days. The discussions are said to focus on addressing logistical challenges while ensuring that political protocols are observed.
Political observers note that the blockade comes at a sensitive time in Somalia’s political calendar, amid debates over the country’s electoral process and ongoing tensions between federal authorities and regional administrations.
Sources further indicate that Mursal and former South West State President Sharif Hassan Sheikh Aden have been advised to refrain from making public statements or criticizing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud while the negotiations are underway.
The standoff underscores growing friction within Somalia’s political elite and highlights the challenges faced by federal representatives in coordinating with regional authorities. It also raises questions about the operational independence of airlines and other transport services in politically sensitive contexts.
Neither the Somali federal government nor the South West State administration has issued official comments on the incident. International observers and analysts have called for dialogue and cooperation to prevent further escalation and ensure smooth coordination between federal and regional officials.
