Galmudug-ASWJ talks to begin on Saturday in Mogadishu

Galmudug regional state in Somalia’s central regions and moderate Islamist group Ahlu Sunna Waljama’a (ASWJ) officials are expected to hold key talks in Mogadishu on Saturday, Galmudug minister confirmed.

The talks are intended to pave the way for power sharing in an attempt to establish a unified regional state in central Somalia.

The state’s minister for constitution and reconciliation, Osman Mohamed Ali said Galmudug delegation who arrived in Mogadishu at the invitation of Federal Government leadership was informed that the talks will be beginning on Saturday.

“Our delegation was told the talks will start today (Saturday), so our delegates are ready to participate,” said Ali.

Galmudug deputy president Mohamed Abdi Hashi along advisors on Wednesday arrived in Mogadishu.

The talks will be brokered by the Somali Federal Government and International community.

Galmudug presidential election which was previously set to be held on April 10 was postponed for 20 days to give talks a chance to form an all-inclusive administration in central Somalia regions.

Ahlu-sunna leader Sheikh Mohamed Shakir has said that talks will initiate a regional understanding with their neighboring Galmudug, saying their side would welcome such talks.