The press release issued by the Presidency of the Federal Republic of Somalia, following the meeting between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and some leaders of the Somali opposition, could mark a positive beginning towards resolving the political disputes surrounding critical national issues such as the constitution, inclusive politics, and the country’s electoral process. We welcome President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s acceptance to place the contentious national matters on the negotiation table.

We also once again emphasize and call for recognition that the Provisional Constitution, agreed upon by the Somali people in 2012, is the foundation that holds the country together. Therefore, any dialogue taking place must be rooted in the constitution as the basis for resolving the nation’s key issues.

Additionally, we urge President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to uphold his constitutional responsibility as a symbol of national unity and cohesion. It is essential that the President takes the initiative to personally attend the upcoming summit involving the Federal Member States of Puntland and Jubaland. He should extend a formal invitation to this crucial meeting scheduled for July 3rd, which is vital for setting a unified political direction for the country.