SSC-Khaatumo Leader Firdhiye Set for Landmark Talks in Mogadishu

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Abdulkadir Ahmed Aw-Cali, widely known as Firdhiye and head of the SSC-Khaatumo interim administration, is due to arrive in Mogadishu, ahead of a critical National Consultative Council meeting, Somali officials said.

Firdhiye’s visit comes at the invitation of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and signals a turning point for northern Somali regions traditionally absent from such national forums.

The high-stakes talks, scheduled to begin at Villa Somalia on May 1, will bring together leaders from Somalia’s federal member states, excluding Jubbaland and Puntland, to tackle major issues, including the fight against Al-Shabaab and preparations for the 2026 elections.

For the first time, a leader from SSC-Khaatumo will take a seat at the council table, long the domain of southern political figures. Speaking recently to a local broadcaster, Firdhiye highlighted the symbolic weight of his participation.

“This is the first time a northern representative joins the forum, which was previously held solely by southern representatives,” he said. “We are here to bring diversity and strengthen the Somali nation. SSC stands at the heart of Somalia’s unity and nationhood.”

In addition to participating in the council meeting, Firdhiye is expected to hold high-level discussions with federal officials to chart a new course for cooperation between SSC-Khaatumo and the central government.

His arrival follows a groundbreaking visit by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre to Las Anod, where he formally recognized the SSC-Khaatumo administration — a move seen as a major shift in Somalia’s complex political landscape.

Although this marks Firdhiye’s second trip to Mogadishu, analysts say this visit carries far greater political significance, with the SSC leader poised to help shape key national decisions at a critical moment for the country’s future.