A coalition of international partners has backed Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s call for a national political dialogue aimed at unifying the country’s efforts against Al-Shabaab and strengthening federal governance.
In a joint statement issued on Monday, over 20 international actors—including the United States, United Nations, African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), European Union, and the United Kingdom—described the initiative as essential for Somalia’s future.
“A coordinated, inclusive approach is crucial to defeating Al-Shabaab and advancing Somalia’s democratic and institutional development,” the statement read, encouraging Somali leaders to move quickly to finalize a national consensus on key constitutional, political, and electoral issues.
The international community also praised recent gains by Somali security forces and AUSSOM in Lower and Middle Shabelle, reaffirming continued support for Somalia’s path to peace and democratic stability.
President Mohamud launched the dialogue initiative during his Eid al-Fitr message on March 29, extending an open call to political opponents, regional leaders, and civil society to contribute to a unified national roadmap.
“This dialogue is for every Somali voice that wants to help defeat the Khawarij [Al-Shabaab] and build a stable, modern nation,” the President said.
Support for the initiative has come from across the political spectrum. Former leaders—including ex-President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and former Prime Ministers Mohamed Hussein Roble and Abdi Farah Shirdon—endorsed the call, urging inclusivity and a results-driven agenda. Former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and other opposition figures echoed the importance of transparency in the process.
Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) welcomed the dialogue as “a key opportunity” to synchronize national efforts. The Maanshiil Forum, an opposition group in South West State, also voiced support.
However, Puntland’s administration has rejected the talks. Puntland’s Information Minister, Mahmoud Ceydiid Dirir, said President Said Abdullahi Deni is focused on fighting ISIS militants in the Bari region and criticized the federal government for political theatrics.
“Deni is on the front lines, while Hassan Sheikh is overreaching his role,” Dirir claimed, highlighting long-standing disputes between Puntland and Mogadishu over constitutional reforms and federal elections planned for 2026.
Despite this, President Mohamud has secured the cooperation of other federal member states. On April 5, he met with leaders of South West, Galmudug, and Hirshabelle to plan the national dialogue and coordinate military strategy.
“Regional leaders are vital to operational success,” said Mohamud. “Their leadership is key to our gains on the ground.”
While Somali troops and local militias have made progress, Al-Shabaab maintains influence in rural areas and continues its attacks on civilians and military targets.
The international statement emphasized the urgency of unified leadership, saying: “Timely coordination by Somali leaders will allow partners to deepen their support.”
Signatories to the statement include AUSSOM, IGAD, the Arab League, and governments from Austria, Belgium, Egypt, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Kenya, Norway, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Türkiye, and Uganda, among others.