Somalia: Mogadishu Talks Collapse as Election Deadlock Deepens Ahead of Critical Deadline

MOGADISHU, Somalia — High-stakes negotiations between the Somali Federal Government and the opposition "Council of the Future" collapsed on Wednesday following a heated debate over the country's stalled electoral process, sources close to the talks said.

The meeting, held under heavy security at the fortified Halane base, ended without an agreement as both sides remained sharply divided on key issues. Despite hours of intense discussions, the parties failed to find common ground and have scheduled further talks for Thursday.

According to insiders, Villa Somalia is pushing for the creation of technical committees to handle the disputed points. However, opposition figures view this move as a stalling tactic designed to bypass the critical May 15 deadline, when the government's current mandate faces a significant constitutional test.

"The government is pushing for technical committees to prolong the process and make May 15 appear like an ordinary day," a source familiar with the negotiations told Garowe Online.

The opposition Council of the Future has so far rejected the proposal for technical committees, demanding a more immediate and concrete political settlement.

The atmosphere at the venue was tense, with security provided by foreign troops guarding Western embassies. The breakdown in talks comes as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud faces mounting pressure to secure a consensus-based electoral model.

Both sides are expected to hold separate internal consultations tonight before returning to the negotiating table tomorrow. International observers continue to monitor the situation closely, fearing that a failure to reach an agreement before Friday could plunge the nation into a fresh political crisis.

GAROWE ONLINE