High-Stakes Talks Between President Mohamud, Opposition to Resume Today

GOOBJOOG NEWS| MOGADISHU: Talks between PHassan Sheikh Mohamud and opposition leaders convening under the Somali Future Council umbrella resume today in Mogadishu, shifting from opening formalities to substantive negotiations on the country’s political future.

The talks follow Thursday’s inaugural session, which set the tone for dialogue between Villa Somalia and key opposition figures amid rising debate over the direction of Somalia’s electoral process and governance reforms.

Today’s discussions are expected to focus squarely on elections and transition arrangements, including the model and timeline for the next polls. The opposition has repeatedly called for clarity on whether the country will move toward a direct one-person, one-vote election or adopt an alternative framework, warning against unilateral decisions.Another central item on the agenda is the constitutional review process.

Opposition leaders have raised concerns over the manner and pace of amendments to the Provisional Constitution, arguing that broad political consensus is essential before any major changes are finalized.Sources familiar with the talks say additional contentious issues including power-sharing, federal-state relations and the role of oversight institutions are also likely to feature in the deliberations.

The outcome of the meeting is being closely watched by political stakeholders and international partners, who have consistently urged dialogue and consensus to safeguard stability and ensure a credible electoral transition.