Farmaajo Signals Conditional Participation in Hassan Sheikh’s November 14 Dialogue, Rejects Parallel Opposition Meetings

MOGADISHU (WDN ) – A significant initiative for political dialogue has emerged, led by serving Sr. members of Somalia’s security institutions who have voiced concern over the country’s political trajectory. The security officials have held meetings with opposition leaders under the umbrella of Mustaqbalka. Reports indicate that the discussions have produced a measure of common ground on the need for peaceful political engagement and the imperative of safeguarding national security institutions from political interference or their use as instruments in political disputes.

In a statement issued by Nabad iyo Nolol former President Mohamed A. Farmaajo had also received senior military commanders, who delivered an invitation from President Hassan Sheikh to attend the forthcoming national dialogue.

Former President Farmaajo has drawn a clear distinction between the official national dialogue convened by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and separate opposition consultations taking place in Mogadishu. Through his Nabad iyo Nolol party, Farmaajo has denied participating in the parallel opposition meetings, while signaling his willingness to attend the November 14–18 presidential dialogue, provided that it is genuinely inclusive and produces a meaningful political settlement

Farmaajo asked the commanders to convey that participation must be built on political trust, inclusivity and respect for the mediation efforts previously undertaken by the international community. He also called for negotiations to resume from where they broke down on September 3, rather than starting afresh.

Importantly, other reports indicate that Farmaajo wants the leaders of Puntland and Jubaland included in the process, making their participation an important condition for his involvement.

The central question now is whether President Hassan Sheikh is prepared to accommodate these conditions or expects opposition leaders simply to attend a meeting whose political framework has already been determined by Villa Somalia.

WardheerNews