Negotiations between Somalia’s Federal Government and opposition leaders resumed in Mogadishu on Thursday as both sides continue efforts to resolve the country’s prolonged political dispute over elections and the constitutional process.
The talks, which began earlier this week, are being mediated by Turkey’s National Intelligence Organization (MIT) with the support of Turkish Foreign Ministry diplomats. The negotiations are being closely watched as political tensions remain high following disagreements over the country’s electoral roadmap.
Security sources familiar with the discussions said both sides have reached an understanding to continue the dialogue, with Turkish mediators urging compromise and emphasizing that Somalia’s stability can only be achieved through peaceful negotiations and political consensus.
Wednesday’s session marked a significant development after representatives of the Federal Government and a faction of the opposition led by former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo jointly announced their commitment to continue negotiations in search of a comprehensive political settlement. Farmaajo’s Peace and Coexistence (Nabad iyo Nolol) movement joined the talks for the first time, broadening opposition participation in the dialogue.
The negotiations are primarily focused on resolving disagreements over Somalia’s electoral model. The Federal Government continues to advocate for a one-person, one-vote election system, arguing that direct elections are essential for strengthening democratic governance. Opposition leaders, however, maintain that any electoral framework must be based on broad political consensus and constitutional agreement before implementation.
The talks also involve wider discussions on constitutional issues, governance reforms, and confidence-building measures aimed at easing months of political tensions between Villa Somalia and opposition groups. International partners have encouraged both sides to avoid unilateral decisions and instead pursue an inclusive agreement that can provide long-term political stability.
Negotiations are expected to continue over the coming days, with diplomats expressing cautious optimism that sustained dialogue could pave the way for a broader political agreement on Somalia’s electoral future and help prevent further political instability.