Friday June 20, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) – The four-day National Consultation Forum,
opened by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Monday, concluded on
Thursday afternoon in Mogadishu with a communique outlining key resolutions on
national unity, security, constitutional reform, and electoral processes.
The high-level forum brought together former presidents,
federal and state officials, influential Somali leaders, and scholars. However,
key opposition parties and the Puntland administration boycotted the gathering,
citing procedural flaws and political grievances.
Central to the discussions were the themes of national unity
and reconciliation, the fight against terrorism, the completion of the
Constitution, and the future of Somalia’s electoral system.
According to the final communiqué, participants emphasized
the need to resume talks between Somalia and Somaliland, reaffirming the
country’s territorial integrity and rejecting any attempts to divide the
nation.
The forum reiterated its support for the ongoing fight
against Al-Shabaab and ISIS, urging continued backing for the Somali National
Army and the local Ma’awisley forces. Leaders agreed that sustaining momentum
in the counter-terrorism effort remains a national priority.
Regarding the Constitution, the forum declared its completion
a national obligation and top priority, calling for renewed negotiations to
finalize the foundational agreements and regulations that underpin Somalia’s
federal system.
On elections, the communiqué underscored a shared commitment
to upholding one person, one vote elections, citing the electoral models of
Somaliland and Puntland as examples. Participants urged accelerated dialogue to
reach a comprehensive and inclusive agreement among state leaders, Parliament,
and the presidency to ensure timely and transparent elections.
Despite the absence of major opposition factions and
Puntland, President Mohamud hailed the forum as a vital step toward reinforcing
political dialogue and consolidating state-building efforts.