Political Divisions Cast a Shadow over Counterterrorism Efforts in Somalia
Somalia’s fight against terrorism, particularly against extremist groups like Al-Shabaab, continues to intensify. However, political stabilization appears to lag behind, casting uncertainty over recent gains. This discord risks undermining security operations in this strategically important Horn of Africa nation.
A forum in a climate of division
On Monday, the Somali capital Mogadishu hosts the National Consultative Forum, initiated by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud. While the forum aims to facilitate an inclusive national dialogue, it is overshadowed by deep political rifts that could hinder its effectiveness.
The event brings together representatives of civil society from within Somalia and the diaspora. The agenda includes vital national issues such as unity, security, the Constitution, and elections, under the theme: “Dialogue as the Path to Consensus.”
Path to peace
In support of the president’s call, a group of Somali clan elders urged opposition leaders to take part in the forum. During a press conference held in Mogadishu, the elders expressed support for the initiative and called for all factions to come to the negotiation table.
They praised the role of the national armed forces and community defense units, stressing that counterterrorism efforts require national cohesion and public backing.
Mixed reactions
Despite endorsement from some social and political groups—including a number of traditional leaders—key political entities have voiced serious concerns, most notably Puntland State and the opposition Forum to Save Somalia.
In a press statement, Puntland’s Minister of Justice, Mohamed Abdoulwahab, announced his region’s refusal to attend the forum. He called for the federal government to return to the 2012 Constitution and to create a neutral, inclusive platform. Puntland also demands recognition of Jubbaland’s election results and calls for national consensus-based elections.
Meanwhile, Jubbaland has remained officially silent, consistent with its history of boycotting similar events. This silence further clouds hopes for a truly unified national agreement.
The opposition Forum to Save Somalia welcomed the president’s initiative but set firm conditions, including the participation of all stakeholders—particularly federal member states and opposition leaders—and an emphasis on defeating terrorist groups.
Earlier in June, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud had announced his intention to convene a “Forum of Political and Social Leaders” in Mogadishu, with the goal of reaching broad national consensus on state-building priorities, particularly in the areas of security, counterterrorism, democratization, elections, reconciliation, and finalizing the Constitution.
Ground-level progress
On the security front, State Minister for Defense Omar Ali Abdi revealed on Sunday the details of a targeted military operation in the Lower Shabelle region against Al-Shabaab strongholds.
The operation, he said, led to the arrest of several militants and the seizure of large quantities of weapons and equipment. He praised the “bravery of Somali forces and African Union mission troops,” noting the campaign is part of the ongoing ‘Silent Storm’ offensive to liberate southern territories from extremism.
In retaliation, Al-Shabaab blew up the strategic Barire Bridge in the same region, destroying it entirely. The bridge was a vital economic link in this agricultural region and had previously been attacked by the group three years ago.
