MOGADISHU — Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, hosted a high-stakes banquet luncheon on Tuesday for members of the “Future Council” (Kutlada Mustaqbal), a coalition that includes the leaders of Jubaland and Puntland as well as prominent opposition figures.
The gathering, held at the Decale Hotel within the secure airport complex in Mogadishu, represents a significant initial effort to break the intensifying political deadlock surrounding the country’s upcoming electoral process and constitutional amendments.
Breaking the Ice
The luncheon serves as a precursor to the anticipated National Consultation Conference (NCC), which the Federal Government intends to convene to resolve disputes over the expiration of government terms and the model for future polls. Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, cabinet ministers, and various opposition representatives were in attendance.
According to Villa Somalia, the discussions focused on “critical national issues,” including enhancing Somali unity, addressing persistent drought conditions, and intensifying the offensive against Al-Shabaab (referred to by the government as Kharijites). The President emphasized the necessity of shared responsibility and wide-ranging consultation to tackle Somalia’s security and humanitarian challenges.
Security Concerns and Mistrust
The choice of venue—the Decale Hotel inside the airport perimeter—appears to be a compromise. While presidential officials had initially proposed holding negotiations at Villa Somalia, council members reportedly rejected the location due to security concerns and deep-seated mistrust.
Leaders from Jubaland and Puntland, who have been in the capital for over a week without formal talks, argued that the highly secured Halane base—protected by African Union peacekeepers—was the only neutral ground suitable for substantive dialogue outside the influence of federal authority.
Constitutional Standoff
The meeting comes amid heightened tension, with the terms of both the President and Parliament set to expire in fewer than three months. The opposition remains firmly against recent constitutional revisions proposed by the government, viewing them as unilateral moves that could jeopardize the integrity of the elections.
The talks were initiated following persistent diplomatic pressure from the international community, including the UN, EU, and US, who urged regional leaders to travel to Mogadishu to avert a political crisis. While the luncheon signals a resumption of contact, analysts suggest that achieving a conclusive resolution on the electoral impasse remains a formidable challenge given the entrenched positions on both sides.
