Somali Civil Society Urges Federal Government and Opposition to Reach Political Agreement

MOGADISHU (SD) — Somali civil society has urged the Federal Government and opposition leaders to return to negotiations and reach an immediate political agreement, warning that continued disagreements over elections could undermine national stability, security and public confidence in political institutions.

In a statement, the Somali civil society umbrella organization SONSA called on both sides to move beyond positions that are contributing to the political impasse and engage in constructive dialogue. The organization said a lasting solution would require compromise, open discussions and a willingness by the parties to address their differences.

SONSA warned that prolonging the dispute could create serious governance and security challenges while weakening public trust in the country’s political leadership. It also cautioned that continued instability could provide opportunities for foreign actors to interfere in Somalia’s internal affairs.

The organization identified the electoral process as a central issue requiring urgent attention. The federal government and opposition figures remain divided over how to conduct the upcoming elections and what arrangements would be acceptable to all sides.

SONSA urged the parties to prioritize negotiations on the elections and work towards an inclusive process that takes account of the positions of different political stakeholders. It stressed that political disagreements should be addressed through peaceful engagement rather than allowed to develop into broader tensions.

The civil society group also called for an environment in which political parties can express their views peacefully and participate meaningfully in discussions about the country’s political future. It said an inclusive agreement would be important for strengthening stability and preventing political disputes from escalating into security confrontations.

The appeal comes amid continuing disagreements between the federal government and opposition leaders over the electoral framework and the path towards a political consensus. No agreement resolving the differences was announced in the statement.

SONSA’s appeal reflects growing concern among civil society actors that the prolonged electoral dispute could have consequences beyond the political arena, affecting governance, security and confidence in Somalia’s institutions.

The central challenge is whether the federal government and opposition can agree on an electoral process that is both politically acceptable and practically achievable. Without a negotiated understanding, disagreements over the rules, timetable and administration of elections could deepen mistrust and complicate the country’s political transition.

Civil society organizations can encourage dialogue and help keep public attention focused on peaceful solutions, but a durable settlement will depend on the willingness of the principal political actors to negotiate in good faith and agree on clear procedures.

SONSA’s statement therefore adds to calls for an inclusive political settlement, with the electoral process remaining the key issue that the government and opposition must resolve.