Somali leader calls for political dialogue, maintains stance on direct elections  

MOGADISHU, Sept 29 – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Monday reiterated his willingness to engage with political stakeholders to resolve disputes over key national issues, including contested constitutional amendments and the format of the 2026 elections.

Speaking at the opening of the seventh session of the federal parliament in Mogadishu, Mohamud said there was no change in his stance on holding direct elections, a long-standing goal of his administration.

“There is no shift in our position. We are committed to ensuring one-person, one-vote elections,” he said.

Mohamud did not address recent public concerns regarding the sale of state-owned land, an issue that has sparked criticism from opposition figures and civil society groups.

Tensions have been building between the federal government and some member states over the constitutional review process and the path toward national elections. The president has faced calls to consult more broadly and ensure consensus on major political reforms.

GAROWE ONLINE