Xasan Sheekh calls for political dialogue, discusses security progress and elections

MOGADISHU — The President of Somalia Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has called for the continuation of political dialogue and strengthening national unity, stating that progress has been made in the fight against Al-Shabaab and efforts to implement one-person, one-vote elections.

In a speech addressed to the Somali people, the president discussed the security and political situation in the country, emphasizing that his government is committed to strengthening security, advancing the democratic process, and finding solutions to political disputes. “The door for dialogue is always open for us.

Differences in opinion can be resolved through dialogue,” said Hassan Sheikh. This statement comes as political disputes still exist between the Federal Government and the opposition regarding the political direction of the country, the constitutional process, and the manner in which elections are to be conducted.

The president reiterated that dialogue is the way to reach an agreement on the critical issues of the country, calling for political differences to be resolved through negotiation. Regarding elections, Hassan Sheikh stated that progress has been made in efforts to implement the one-person, one-vote system, noting that the recent elections were held peacefully, allowing the people to participate in electing their leadership.

Somalia is striving to move beyond the indirect election system that has long been used to select members of parliament and political leadership, which has been heavily influenced by clan representatives and delegates. The implementation of direct elections is part of the government's plan for democratic reform; however, disputes regarding the electoral process and the political plan of the country still persist.

On security, the president stated that operations against Al-Shabaab have made significant progress, and the group has been removed from several areas where the local population is now feeling

Security is improving and the government administration is returning. Al-Shabaab, which is linked to the Al-Qaeda organization, has been fighting the Somali government for more than ten years, still posing a threat to the country's security, and carrying out attacks against the forces, government officials, and the public.

The Federal Government has prioritized the fight against the group as a crucial security concern, collaborating with local forces and international partners to regain control of areas affected by conflict and to strengthen government institutions. Hassan Sheikh finally stated that his government will continue efforts to enhance security, democracy, and cooperation among political parties, emphasizing the importance of national unity.

However, it remains unclear whether this new call will lead to productive negotiations with the opposition or resolve the disputes surrounding the political process and elections in the country.

In a speech addressed to the Somali people, the president discussed the security and political situation in the country, noting that his government is committed to strengthening security, advancing the democratic process, and finding solutions to political disputes.

“The door to dialogue is always open for us. Differences in perspectives can be resolved through dialogue,” said Hassan Sheikh.

This statement comes amid ongoing political disputes between the Federal Government and the opposition regarding the political direction of the country, the constitutional process, and the manner in which elections are to be conducted.

The President reiterated that dialogue is the way to reach an agreement on the country's vital issues, calling for political differences to be resolved through negotiation.

Regarding elections, Hassan Sheikh stated that progress has been made in efforts to implement the one-person, one-vote system, noting that the recent elections were held peacefully, enabling the public to participate in electing their leadership.

Somalia is striving to move beyond the long-standing indirect election system used to select members of parliament and political leadership, which has been heavily influenced by clan-based delegates and representatives.