IGAD Welcomes Somalia Talks Despite Deadlock as AU Warns Over Political Tensions

GOOBJOOG NEWS|DJIBOUTI: The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has welcomed recent consultations between the Federal Government of Somalia and opposition stakeholders in Mogadishu, despite the talks ending without a breakthrough on key political disputes.

In a statement issued after the May 13–15 consultations, the regional bloc praised the direct engagement between the two sides and encouraged continued dialogue to resolve outstanding issues.

“The Secretariat welcomes the direct engagement between the parties and encourages continued dialogue to address outstanding issues in a constructive and inclusive manner,” IGAD said.

The tone of the statement stood in contrast to the African Union’s more cautious position on Somalia’s escalating political crisis.

On Saturday, the African Union expressed concern over the deteriorating political situation and warned against actions that could undermine stability. The AU called on Somali leaders “to exercise restraint, uphold constitutional processes, and engage in inclusive dialogue to preserve peace, unity and democratic governance in Somalia.”

While IGAD framed the Mogadishu consultations as a positive development, the talks reportedly ended without agreement on contentious issues surrounding the electoral process and governance arrangements, leaving the political standoff unresolved.

IGAD nevertheless stressed that continued political engagement remains critical for Somalia’s stability, democratic governance, and state-building efforts.

“The Secretariat calls on all Somali stakeholders to pursue solutions that reinforce national unity, strengthen public confidence, and uphold Somalia’s long-term stability and institutional progress,” the statement added.

The regional bloc also reaffirmed its support for Somali-led efforts aimed at inclusive governance, peace, and security.

The statements from both IGAD and the AU come amid heightened uncertainty in Somalia following the expiry of the current president’s term on May 15 under the framework of the provisional constitution under which he was elected. Political disagreements over the electoral model and transition process have deepened divisions between the federal government and opposition groups.

Observers say the differing tone between IGAD and the AU reflects parallel regional efforts to encourage dialogue while also acknowledging growing concern over the risk of prolonged political instability in Somalia.