U.S. Opposes Outcomes of Somalia’s National Consultative Council Meeting

Mogadishu, Somalia – The United States has officially opposed the outcomes of the recently concluded National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting held in Mogadishu. The meeting has drawn criticism for its lack of inclusivity, as it did not involve all relevant stakeholders within Somalia’s federal system.

The U.S. Department of State’s Africa Affairs Bureau expressed concern over the lack of inclusivity in the discussions, emphasizing that any decisions affecting Somalia’s federal and electoral system must include input from all relevant stakeholders to ensure legitimacy.

In an official statement, the department said:

“All relevant stakeholders should have a say in changes to Somalia’s federal and election systems. Decisions taken without broad-based support will lack legitimacy and distract from pressing security challenges.”

The U.S. government warned against making political decisions without comprehensive national consultations, stressing that such unilateral moves could undermine reconciliation efforts, political stability, and the fight against Al-Shabaab.

The lack of inclusivity in the NCC meeting, which notably did not involve Puntland and Jubaland, raised questions about the credibility and legitimacy of the decisions made, particularly those concerning Somalia’s political future.

The meeting, attended by three regional state leaders who currently hold office under controversial term extensions granted by Villa Somalia, has been viewed by many as an attempt to consolidate power without broad consensus.

The United States urged Somali leaders to strengthen political dialogue, build mutual trust, and ensure transparency to achieve a political process that unites all stakeholders.

It remains uncertain how the Somali federal government will respond to the strongly worded statement from the United States, which marks a clear setback for the NCC’s communique.

Garowe Online