Crucial Opposition, Gov’t Talks Collapse Amid Row Over Constitutional Changes

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: The Somali Future Council has said that discussions with the Federal Government ended without agreement, citing deep differences over constitutional amendments and the country’s electoral process.
In a statement issued in Mogadishu, the council, which comprises key opposition figures and presidents of Jubaland Puntland said it joined the talks in good faith, seeking to help steer the country through pressing challenges including drought, political tensions and security threats. It said its priority was to preserve previously agreed electoral frameworks and ensure elections are held before the expiry of constitutional mandates.
The council accused the government of pursuing unilateral changes to the 2012 provisional constitution, including proposals it said would centralize authority and alter electoral arrangements without broad political consensus.
It also alleged that more than 50 members of parliament faced restrictions during the talks, along with what it described as political pressure that weakened trust in the process.
Key sticking points included proposed constitutional revisions and the management of elections in federal member states. The council said amendments must be based on inclusive national consultation, while state-level polls should proceed in accordance with federal principles and existing state constitutions.
Despite the impasse, the council said it remains open to dialogue and compromise, warning that unilateral steps could deepen divisions and risk institutional instability.