Somalia: International partners consider alternative plans if election talks fail: sources

MOGADISHU – International partners are considering alternative options, including bringing Somalia’s political leaders together outside the country, if ongoing talks in Mogadishu fail to resolve disputes over elections and the country’s political direction, sources familiar with the matter said.

The sources said some of Somalia’s international partners were working on contingency plans aimed at breaking the political deadlock between the federal government and opposition figures.

The current talks in Mogadishu involve Somali political actors and are being facilitated by representatives from key international partners, including the United States, Britain, Turkey and the European Union. However, the sources said expectations for a quick breakthrough remain limited.

A proposal to hold a meeting of Somali leaders outside the country had previously been raised but was rejected by some opposition figures, who at the time believed the dispute could be resolved through domestic dialogue.

The sources also said a proposal for the creation of a temporary governing council, agreed upon by the main political stakeholders, had been brought back to the table for the third time. The proposed body would oversee national affairs during a transitional period until a broader political settlement is reached.

According to the sources, the idea has been discussed with some opposition leaders, although no agreement has been reached.

Concerns have also grown over the future of international security support for Somalia. The United States is expected to end its financial support for the African Union mission in Somalia in December, while the AU continues to face funding challenges. Support expected from some Arab countries has also reportedly fallen short of expectations.

The sources said Turkey would not be able to fully replace the role played by the United States or African Union forces if international assistance declines.

They warned that the closure of any Western embassy in the heavily secured Halane compound in Mogadishu could trigger significant changes affecting Somalia’s political and security landscape.

The Somali government and other parties mentioned in the report have not publicly commented on the claims made by the sources.

GAROWE ONLINE