Wednesday July 8, 2026
Mogadishu (HOL) — Representatives of Somalia’s federal government and an opposition group led by former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo met in Mogadishu on Tuesday and agreed to continue inclusive political dialogue.
In a statement, the parties said the talks were aimed at promoting political stability, security and sustainable development.
The parties also thanked Turkey for what they described as its tireless role in facilitating the ongoing negotiations.
A Turkish delegation has been meeting with committees representing the federal government and opposition ahead of planned face-to-face talks led by Western representatives later this week, sources close to the process said.
The meetings are part of renewed diplomatic efforts to resolve Somalia’s electoral dispute after previous mediation attempts failed to produce an agreement.
The opposition, united under the Somali Future Council, had previously refused to take part in talks led exclusively by Turkey, arguing that Ankara was not a mediator trusted by both sides.
However, informed sources said Turkey is now working with Western representatives to help build trust between the government and opposition and increase the chances of reaching a political agreement.
The federal government and opposition remain divided over the electoral process.
Opposition leaders have accused the government of trying to shape the process without broad political consensus, while the government has said it remains committed to advancing Somalia’s transition to direct elections through legal and constitutional institutions.
