Somalia postpones National Dialogue amid political tensions

MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s National Consultative Council meeting, originally scheduled for June 22, has been postponed to July 15, the federal government announced Friday.

The government said the delay was to allow for preparations ahead of the country’s Independence Week celebrations.

“In consideration of the significance and preparations for Independence Week, the National Consultative Council meeting, initially set by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for June 22, will now be held on July 15, Allah willing,” the statement said.

The previous council meeting failed after opposition groups, including the Puntland and Jubbaland regional administrations, boycotted the event. Their absence highlighted ongoing political disputes, with the presidency maintaining a firm stance on election and constitutional matters.

Mohamud’s term is nearing its end, and Somalia faces numerous urgent challenges that require quick resolution. The international community is expected to increase pressure on political leaders to reach a timely agreement to end the deadlock.

It remains unclear whether leaders from Puntland and Jubbaland will attend the rescheduled meeting amid continued disagreements with the federal government.

GAROWE ONLINE