International partners rally behind Somalia election roadmap talks

Since Somalia’s president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, extended an invitation to the opposition bloc, the Somali Future Council, international partners have voiced support for the initiative.

The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia welcomed the call, urging inclusive engagement to address key national priorities. In a statement, the mission said it “welcomes the Federal Government of Somalia's invitation to the Somali Future Council for a meeting aimed at jointly finding a way forward on critical national priorities.” It added that all parties should engage “constructively and in good faith,” stressing that the interests of the Somali people must remain the “foremost consideration.”

The mission reiterated its readiness to assist efforts to resolve outstanding issues, noting that it would continue to work alongside international partners in supporting Somali-led solutions. “Together with other partners, UNTMIS continues to stand ready to support Somali efforts to resolve outstanding issues,” the statement said.

The UK Embassy in Somalia also welcomed the initiative, with Ambassador Charles King expressing support for renewed dialogue. “I welcome the Federal Government of Somalia's invitation to meet the Somali Future Council,” he said in a statement. King stressed that “during this critical period, dialogue is the best way to address national priorities, promote stability, and support the interests of all Somalis,” adding that the United Kingdom stands ready to back Somali-led efforts as a partner.

Earlier, the European Union ambassador to Somalia also endorsed the call for talks, urging a “constructive way forward” to resolve political differences. Statements from international partners highlight growing diplomatic support for dialogue as Somalia seeks to navigate ongoing political challenges and build consensus on key national issues.

On Saturday, President Mohamud invited the opposition coalition to participate in a consultative meeting scheduled for May 10. The presidency said the invitation follows a series of engagements with diverse stakeholders, including political leaders, elders, and community representatives. The planned discussions are expected to address contentious issues, including constitutional changes and the electoral roadmap.

However, the invitation comes amid escalating tensions. Opposition leaders recently convened in Mogadishu and signaled their intention to no longer recognize the president’s authority beyond May 15, when his current mandate is set to expire. In parallel, opposition groups have intensified criticism of the federal government, accusing it of weakening democratic institutions, violating constitutional principles, and using security forces for political purposes.

They described the country as undergoing a fragile political transition marked by instability. Allegations also included “suppression of dissent, unlawful property seizures, and economic disruption.” The bloc has called for inclusive consultations involving all stakeholders and insisted that security agencies operate impartially within constitutional limits.

At the center of the dispute is a constitutional controversy over the presidential term. While a newly enacted constitution extends the term to five years, the opposition argues that the current administration was elected under a four-year framework and should adhere to that limit. The new constitution has been rejected by regional states such as Puntland and Jubbaland, contributing to political friction.

Efforts to resolve disagreements through prior consultations have failed, particularly over constitutional reforms and the proposed one-person, one-vote electoral system. With positions deeply divided, the upcoming meeting is widely seen as a crucial moment for advancing the electoral roadmap.