MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud presided over the National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting on Wednesday in Mogadishu.
The two-day meeting was attended by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, his deputy, Mayor Yusuf Jim’ale Madale of Mogadishu, and all regional leaders—Ahmed Madobe of Jubaland, Ali Gudlawe of Hirshabelle, Abdiaziz Laftagaren of Southwest, and Ahmed Karie of Galmudug—except for Said Deni, the President of Puntland.
Discussions are reportedly centered on the country’s security situation, particularly the acceleration of the fight against Al-Shabaab, an al-Qaeda-linked group, the completion of the democratization process, state-building, and the implementation of agreements previously reached by the council.
President Mohamud emphasized the need for collective action, stating, “The meeting focuses on accelerating the fight against Al-Shabaab, advancing the democratization process, and ensuring the implementation of the council’s political deals.”
In addition to security concerns, the council is also tasked with pushing forward Somalia’s democratization process. This includes discussions on upcoming elections, establishing a more inclusive political environment, and enhancing public participation in governance.
The only leader missing from the meeting was Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, who is currently engaged in political disputes with the federal government.
Both Said Deni and President Mohamud have been embroiled in a heated standoff since April 2024 due to concerns over constitutional amendments. Nevertheless, the NCC remains a vital platform for dialogue, aimed at strengthening national unity and improving governance throughout Somalia.
Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Ali Khaire noted that the NCC meeting comes amid political uncertainty in Somalia and external threats from Ethiopia. Khaire urged the federal government and regional state leaders to prioritize public interest, avoid term extensions that lead to conflict and instability, and protect national unity.
He emphasized that legitimacy is vital for governance, as outlined in the constitution, warning against the consequences of illegal term extensions on national stability and security. In a post on his X account, he called for urgent elections for regional states with expired terms and a consensus on federal elections, aiming for an inclusive election on May 15, 2026.
Khaire also highlighted the need to address Puntland’s grievances to promote national unity and prevent further conflict.
However, the discussions and agreements reached during the meeting are believed to be vital for shaping Somalia’s immediate and long-term future amid ongoing political tensions.
