Mogadishu (Horn post) Planned national consultative talks in Somalia were delayed after flights carrying advance delegations from Puntland and Jubaland were denied clearance to land in Mogadishu and forced to return to Garowe and Kismayo.
The delegations were scheduled to attend a forum on elections and national political issues. Federal authorities cited technical and security clearance issues, while regional officials said prior coordination had taken place.
The European Union Ambassador to Somalia, Francesca Di Mauro, described the incident as regrettable and called on all sides to resolve the misunderstanding and create conditions for meaningful dialogue.
The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) also expressed regret over the disruption, urging Somali stakeholders to prioritize dialogue, complete technical preparations swiftly, and work toward consensus as constitutional timelines approach.
Efforts are ongoing to reschedule the talks.
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Horn post staff reporter
