Somali Political Leaders Hold Closed-Door Talks in Kismayo

KISMAAYO, Somalia — Senior Somali political figures held closed-door meetings Friday at the Jubaland presidential palace in the southern city of Kismayo, as efforts continue to shape the country’s next elections slated for 2026 and governance, sources said.

Officials briefed on the discussions told Garowe Online that the talks focused on finalizing the structure of a proposed body known as the Future Council of Somalia, which is expected to play a role in guiding the country’s political direction.

“The Future Council of Somalia today began closed consultations at the Jubaland presidential palace, following the opening of the general conference yesterday,” said one participant attending the meetings.

Sources added that attention also turned to drafting the language of a final communiqué, expected to outline the opposition’s position on the governance model to be adopted and propose a possible path forward to resolve disputes surrounding Somalia’s 2026 elections.

The Kismayo meetings, which bring together leaders of Puntland, Jubaland, former President Sheikh Sharif, PMs, and current MPs and Senators, come amid intensified political negotiations over electoral reforms and efforts to reach a broader consensus on addressing challenges facing Somalia’s political process.

GAROWE ONLINE