Somalia: Hassan Sheikh invites Federal State presidents to Mogadishu talks

MOGADISHU, Somalia - A major political showdown is looming in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia, following a rare invitation extended to Puntland leader Said Abdullahi Deni by Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the president of the federal government of Somalia.

For one month, Deni, who recently won re-election in Puntland, questioned Hassan Sheikh's non-participatory approach in talking about Somalia's problems, basing his argument on controversial constitutional amendments.

With the situation escalating after both parties stood their ground, Hassan Sheikh has now called for a consultative meeting, making an invite to the Puntland leader. The National Consultative Council meeting is scheduled for April 20-21 in Mogadishu.

So far, it is unclear whether Deni would attend the meeting having 'cut ties' with Mogadishu after the constitutional amendments clauses were signed into law. Puntland insisted it would operate as an 'independent' entity until the outstanding issues are 'amicably solved'.

“The meeting will discuss matters about the destiny of the country including fighting terrorism and completion of the constitution,” the invitation said,.

Also invited are the leaders of Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe, SoutLafta's Abdiaziz Laftagareen, GalmMrQo's Ahmed Kariye alias Qoorqoor, Hirshabelle leader Gudlawe Hussein; and the Mayor of Mogadishu Yusuf Hussein Jimale.

On Tuesday, the five state leaders were expected to issue a joint statement against the federal government but it did not materialise. Hassan Sheikh has been accused of 'undermining' federalism which has significantly contributed to Somalia's relative stability.

Deni had called for dialogue over the anticipated changes, terming Hassan Sheikh 'non-committal'. Should the meeting take place, tensions would subside in the country which is also battling against Al-Shabaab militants who control several parts.

Under the new changes, Somalia would adopt a universal suffrage model of elections against the much favoured traditional model where elders have much power. The powers and responsibilities of the Prime Minister are enormously reduced.

Puntland maintains adequate consultations was not done and is on record for questioning the rationale behind changing the model. On the other hand, Hassan Sheikh says the approval by his office supported by parliament was final.

The Federal Government of Somalia has also been under pressure from the international community, who want an immediate cessation of hostilities. Deni was one of the candidates who contested for Somalia’s Puntland state elections.

So far, Puntland maintains it will operate as an independent state until the matter is solved amicably. Parliament was the first to endorse the changes before President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud signed them into law.

GAROWE ONLINE