Kismayo talks: What next after deadlock

KISMAYO, Somalia - The talks between Jubaland regional leader Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud could enter the next phase, both camps confirmed, following a deadlock witnessed in the preliminary meeting attended by the two leaders.

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was in Kismayo for a truce with Madobe, who maintains that for the talks to make any meaningful progress, Mogadishu must recognise the legitimacy of his leadership — an idea opposed by the federal government.

In a statement, Villa Somalia noted that the talks were in the preliminary stage, adding that more meetings are expected in the future to unlock the stalemate, which threatens the stability of the Jubaland state, consequently, giving Al-Shabaab a head-start.

"Both sides agreed to continue consultations and reconvene to advance the dialogue process," read the statement by the state media.

"President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud thanked the Jubaland administration and the people of Kismayo for their warm welcome and hospitality, commending their strong sense of Somali unity and solidarity during his stay in the city."

On its part, Jubaland, which avoided direct mention of Hassan Sheikh, hailed Kenya for facilitating the talks, following incidents of military build-ups along the Kenya-Somalia border. The Jubaland forces had conflicted with the Somali National Army.

In a statement issued Monday, the Jubaland presidency included special thanks to the Government of Kenya “its ongoing efforts to help end existing differences and contribute to resolving Somalia’s political disputes.”

The state further rallied for dialogue while insisting on unity “around the major national priorities that face our country.” “Both sides agreed that the talks will continue and that additional meetings will be convened to achieve a durable and comprehensive solution,” the statement added.

Without a clear timeline for the talks, the country is facing uncertainty with regard to the fight against Al-Shabaab and the electoral timetable — Madobe wants indirect polls, an idea supported by several opposition leaders but rejected by Hassan Sheikh’s administration.

The brewing tensions invited Kenya's presence due to its close partnership with Jubaland in the Al-Shabaab war, fearing that the wrangles between Mogadishu and Kismayo could erode gains made in the fight against Al-Shabaab.

GAROWE ONLINE