Somali women have called for the urgent launch of a national dialogue to address the country's escalating political and security challenges, urging President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to initiate an inclusive process that brings together all stakeholders to resolve the ongoing political crisis.
The appeal was made during a conference attended by women from various sectors of society, who voiced concern over recent political developments and the deteriorating security situation across the country.
In a statement issued at the conclusion of the conference, participants stressed that any meaningful effort to address Somalia's challenges must be based on broad consultations and include women, civil society organisations, and other key stakeholders.
The women emphasised that political agreements can only be sustainable when founded on consultation, consensus, and national ownership. They argued that women and civil society must play a central role in shaping discussions about the country's future.
“We expressed strong concern about the political situation in the country, following the recent violence involving government forces and the opposition,” the statement said.
Participants noted that Somalia has entered a sensitive period following recent clashes in Mogadishu involving federal government forces and groups aligned with the opposition.
According to the conference statement, the confrontations resulted in deaths, injuries, civilian displacement, and property destruction, raising concerns about the country's political direction and long-term stability.
The women argued that lasting peace and political stability can only be achieved through dialogue, understanding, compromise, and consensus-building. They warned against attempts to resolve political disputes through force, saying confrontation cannot solve issues that require political negotiations.
They also urged both the federal government and opposition leaders to avoid actions, statements, or decisions that could heighten tensions or undermine peace and stability in Mogadishu and other parts of the country. The participants called on political leaders to prioritise engagement and cooperation to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
On the electoral process, the women called on political stakeholders to agree on an election framework that is inclusive, transparent, credible, and fair. They said a consensus-based electoral model would strengthen public confidence in state institutions and contribute to political stability during a period of uncertainty.
The conference also encouraged citizens to safeguard peace, maintain social cohesion, and protect national stability. Somalis were urged to work together to protect lives and property while supporting efforts aimed at securing the country's future.
The appeal comes amid growing political disagreements in Mogadishu over electoral reforms, constitutional amendments, and debates surrounding President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's mandate. Opposition leaders have accused the federal government of pursuing major political changes without sufficient consultation, while government officials maintain that the reforms are necessary to pave the way for one-person, one-vote elections and promote long-term stability.
Former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo also weighed in on the situation, describing the current political climate as a critical moment that requires cooperation rather than further division. He said Somali leaders have the capacity to resolve the country's challenges through internal dialogue and agreements without relying on external intervention.
“Somalia is at a critical political juncture, and disputes over the electoral process and governance have affected the country’s overall security and stability,” Farmaajo said.
The former president maintained that dialogue remains the most effective way to resolve the ongoing political standoff and called on all parties to lower tensions and avoid actions that could deepen the crisis. He said progress on major national issues would depend on broad discussions involving all political actors to reach an agreement that accommodates the interests of all stakeholders.
Farmaajo also urged leaders across the political spectrum to place national unity and the country's interests above political competition. He expressed readiness to support initiatives aimed at reducing political differences and creating an environment that encourages constructive engagement.
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