Somali president meets EU representatives amid political tensions

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Wednesday held talks with European Union representatives in Mogadishu’s Halane compound to discuss ongoing cooperation and development efforts.

According to Villa Somalia, the president thanked the EU for its continued support in rebuilding Somalia and outlined priorities including reconciliation, good governance, the proposed national dialogue, and the advancement of a democratic system.

The meeting comes as the country faces political uncertainty over the electoral process. President Mohamud is pushing for a one-person, one-vote system, a move strongly opposed by several opposition figures. They argue that the security situation remains unstable, with Al-Shabaab controlling significant territories and intensifying attacks in regions such as Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan.

Opposition leaders have also raised concerns over the feasibility of voter registration and election preparation, with less than a year left before the expected polls.

Under growing international pressure, President Mohamud has recently agreed to convene national talks. The forthcoming National Consultative Council meeting is expected to bring together federal member states and key stakeholders.

However, Jubaland has been excluded from the talks. The federal government said its leader, Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe), will not be allowed to participate unless he withdraws from a regional election it deems unconstitutional.

Other regional states, including the newly recognised SSC-Khatumo administration, have been invited and are expected to attend.

The government hopes the talks will help chart a unified path forward as the country prepares for the next phase of its political transition.