MOGADISHU — Former President of the Federal Republic of Somalia and the country’s ninth president, Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmaajo, held a meeting on Tuesday evening with the President of Galmudug State, Ahmed Abdi Karie “Qoorqoor,” who visited the headquarters of the Peace and Life Party (Nabad iyo Nolol) in Mogadishu.
The meeting focused on Somalia’s current political situation, with particular attention to the country’s electoral process and ongoing discussions over the framework and arrangements for the upcoming elections.
Farmaajo and Qoorqoor exchanged views on the political developments in the country and the importance of continued dialogue among Somalia’s political stakeholders. Their meeting comes at a time when discussions over the electoral process remain a major focus of political debate, with various political actors calling for broader consultation and consensus.
The two leaders also discussed the importance of establishing an inclusive, transparent and credible electoral process that can gain the confidence of Somalia’s political stakeholders and the wider public.
They emphasized the need for political dialogue and consultation to help prevent further tensions and to create a framework that promotes stability, national unity and peaceful political participation.
The meeting is significant given the political roles both figures have played in Somalia. Farmaajo, who served as president from 2017 to 2022, remains an influential figure within the country’s opposition political landscape through the Nabad iyo Nolol political organization. Qoorqoor, meanwhile, leads Galmudug State and remains an important actor in Somalia’s federal political system.
Their discussions are also taking place amid broader disagreements among Somalia’s political leaders over the direction of the country’s electoral system and the political arrangements surrounding the next elections.
Observers say continued engagement between federal and state-level political figures, as well as former national leaders and opposition groups, could play an important role in reducing political tensions and building consensus around the electoral process.
The meeting therefore reflects the growing importance of political consultation, consensus-building and dialogue as Somalia prepares for the next phase of its electoral and political transition.
