Sunday July 20, 2025 {HMC} President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held his third meeting with leaders of the Somali National Salvation Forum on Sunday, as the federal government seeks to resolve mounting political tensions over constitutional reforms and the country’s electoral future.
The talks took place at Villa Somalia and followed a previous round of dialogue held on July 3. Officials said the president used the meeting to hear the opposition’s concerns over the government’s handling of the constitutional review process and preparations for upcoming elections.
Led by former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, the National Salvation Forum includes several former prime ministers, ex-parliamentary speakers, and senior opposition figures. The group has publicly criticized what it calls unilateral decision-making by the federal government on key national matters.
Sunday’s meeting comes at a time of growing political uncertainty, particularly as federal member states Puntland and Jubbaland continue to reject the current path toward constitutional amendments and electoral planning. Both administrations argue the process lacks consultation and risks undermining Somalia’s federal framework.
The provisional constitution, adopted in 2012, remains incomplete. Reaching consensus on its final form is seen as critical to establishing a unified legal foundation for Somalia’s federal institutions. Similarly, the design of a new electoral model remains unresolved, despite repeated pledges by the federal government to introduce direct elections.
While no official statement was issued following the meeting, the continued dialogue has drawn attention from international partners and Somali citizens alike, many of whom view political compromise as essential to the country’s stability.
Source Hiiraan onnline
