Nairobi, (Hornpost) A major political development unfolded today in Nairobi as the Presidents of Puntland and Jubaland, Said Abdullahi Deni and Ahmed Mohamed Islam “Madobe,” met with leading opposition figures from the Somali Salvation Forum, including former Prime Ministers Hassan Ali Khaire and Abdi Farah Shirdon, along with MP Abdirahman Abdishakur.
The meeting resulted in the establishment of a new body, the Somalia Future Council, bringing together the two federal member states and key opposition leaders. The council is expected to convene soon inside Somalia to deliberate on the country’s political transition.
In a joint communiqué, the leaders emphasized:
- The creation of the Somalia Future Council as a unifying platform.
- The need for an urgent national conference inside Somalia to address the political transition.
- Finalizing the council’s structure at the upcoming meeting.
- A call for Somali unity and protection of national stability.
- Appreciation to Kenya for its support toward peace and stability in Somalia.
Background of the Rift of Somalia
The rift between Somalia’s federal leadership and the states of Puntland and Jubaland has persisted for years, rooted in disputes over constitutional reforms and the electoral system. Opposition leaders accuse the federal government of seeking to centralize power, undermining federalism.
The tensions echo previous stand-offs between former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and the same regional leaders, highlighting recurring disputes over power-sharing in Somalia.
The crisis comes at a time when ordinary Somalis are facing severe humanitarian challenges, Al-Shabaab remains entrenched in central regions, and international partners have scaled back funding for African Union peacekeepers. The United States recently announced it would not finance Somali peacekeeping operations, signaling donor fatigue over the country’s protracted political deadlock.
Analysts warn that unless consensus is reached, Somalia risks further instability, weakened federalism, and dwindling international support.
Hornpost staff Reporter
