National Forum Ends with Call for Unity, Direct Elections in Somalia

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia’s National Consultative Forum concluded in Mogadishu Thursday after four days of dialogue aimed at advancing national reconciliation, completing constitutional reforms, and strengthening democratic governance.

The talks, convened by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud from June 16–19, brought together federal officials, opposition leaders, representatives from Puntland, religious scholars, civil society actors, and former heads of state.

In his opening remarks, President Mohamud stressed the forum’s inclusive nature and reaffirmed that no stakeholder would be excluded from shaping Somalia’s state-building process.

Delegates emphasized the urgency of completing Somalia’s provisional constitution and firmly rejected a return to indirect elections, calling instead for a unified roadmap toward universal suffrage and synchronized local elections across the country.

Participants also called for renewed dialogue between the Federal Government and Somaliland authorities to resolve longstanding political differences and preserve national unity. The forum denounced external interference and urged Somali-led solutions to domestic challenges.

The Somali National Army’s progress against Al-Shabaab and Daesh in Puntland and other regions was widely acknowledged, with participants highlighting extremist ideology as the country’s greatest threat. Continued support for national forces was urged to sustain military gains.

The forum backed further constitutional dialogue on approved and pending chapters, and called for implementation of key provisions guiding federalism. Delegates agreed that political consensus is essential to stabilize the electoral framework at both state and federal levels.

Leaders praised President Mohamud’s initiative and encouraged future forums to include a wider range of Somali voices, including scholars, elders, and community leaders. They also stressed that political disputes should not disrupt humanitarian aid or development work.

The forum marked a rare show of unity in Somalia’s often fragmented political landscape, amid ongoing efforts to rebuild state institutions after decades of conflict.