A new round of political negotiations in Mogadishu is back on track after intensive diplomatic engagement helped defuse a growing standoff between Somalia’s federal leadership and opposition figures.
The talks, involving the Federal Government, the Future Council, and Federal Member States opposed to the current electoral roadmap, had faced uncertainty earlier this week amid scheduling disputes and presidential travel plans. However, international partners intervened to encourage compromise and prevent a complete breakdown.
Following behind-the-scenes consultations, Somali leaders agreed on a revised timeline that allows President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to proceed with planned visits to Qatar and Egypt before returning to Mogadishu to personally lead negotiations.
The president is expected back in the capital on February 9, with opposition-aligned regional leaders, including Puntland and Jubbaland, signaling readiness to travel shortly after—moves widely seen as a cautious shift from boycott toward engagement.
Preparatory meetings are already underway, with technical committees tasked with laying the groundwork for formal talks scheduled to begin on February 10 at the Halane complex under heightened security.
The negotiations come at a sensitive moment for Somalia, as regional and international developments continue to shape domestic politics. Diplomats warn that failure to reach consensus at home could weaken the country’s position in upcoming regional forums.
For now, stakeholders describe the atmosphere as calm but fragile, with progress dependent on sustained dialogue and mutual restraint in the days ahead.
