Bridging Divides: Garowe's vital role in resolving Somalia's multifaceted crisis

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Bridging Divides: Garowe's vital role in resolving Somalia's multifaceted crisis

GAROWE – In the wake of his presidential inauguration, Puntland's President Said Abdullahi Deni has embarked on a crucial initiative: hosting a political dialogue aimed at addressing Somalia's intricate political crises, a legacy of P

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Puntland president Said Abdullahi Deni [right] farewells Somalia president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud [left] in Garowe on Jan., 26. | PHOTO/ Courtesy.

GAROWE – In the wake of his presidential inauguration, Puntland's President Said Abdullahi Deni has embarked on a crucial initiative: hosting a political dialogue aimed at addressing Somalia's intricate political crises, a legacy of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's tenure.

Deni’s decision underscores the urgency of tackling issues that imperil Somalia’s stability and unity.

While the specific agenda for the dialogue remains undisclosed, Deni has emphasized its focus on the myriad crises threatening Somalia’s cohesion. Central among these is the contentious constitutional change, vehemently opposed by Puntland and other stakeholders.

Deni noted that President Mohamud had previously agreed to this dialogue during his presence in Garowe, where the inauguration took place, even assigning the Deputy Prime Minister to work on the agenda.

However, tensions have arisen, with the Federal Government expressing discontent over the conference being held in Garowe. Instead, it proposes Mogadishu as the venue under the auspices of the National Consultative Council (NCC), a suggestion met with resistance from Puntland, which has abstained from NCC meetings due to ongoing discord between Mogadishu and Garowe.

Opposition to Deni’s proposal has also surfaced within the Somali parliament, particularly from MPs aligned with Villa Somalia, advocating for a return to the NCC.

Nevertheless, despite these challenges, the reality remains that the Garowe political dialogue stands as the most viable option for bringing together Somali political stakeholders.

Support for Garowe’s hosting extends to opposition groups in Mogadishu and the diaspora, recognizing Puntland’s capacity and significance within the Somali political landscape.

Garowe’s pivotal role echoes its leadership during Somalia’s critical juncture in 2012, navigating the country through a tumultuous transition marked by disputes and divisions.

Today, under President Mohamud’s administration, Somalia faces mounting challenges exacerbated by attempts to alter key constitutional provisions and abolish the prime ministerial position, compounded by economic woes and the resurgence of militant group Al-Shabaab.

Furthermore, disparities persist within the clan-based power-sharing framework of the federal government, with many clans inadequately represented in the cabinet. Addressing these disparities and overseeing the 2026 elections, including the selection of parliamentarians, will be paramount topics for discussion in the upcoming Garowe conference.

Additionally, the status of the Sool, Sanaag, and Cayn (SSC) regions, which declared autonomy from Somaliland last August but await official recognition as a federal member state, adds another layer of complexity. Puntland and SSC lawmakers are advocating for the inclusion of the SSC issue on the Garowe dialogue agenda.

Amidst these internal challenges, Somalia grapples with external pressures, notably Somaliland’s pursuit of its memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Ethiopia.

Somaliland’s recent efforts to advance its memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Ethiopia, signed on January 1, 2024, have drawn attention from Somali stakeholders.

Many hope that the upcoming Garowe gathering could foster consensus opposing Somaliland’s actions. However, it’s worth noting that while Mogadishu has been vocal about its opposition to the MOU, the federal member states of Somalia have maintained a relatively subdued stance. Ahmed Qoorqoor, President of Galmudug, even remarked during his speech in Garowe on January 25, that there is no necessity for the federal member states to comment further, as Mogadishu has already articulated its position on the matter.

The success of the Garowe dialogue hinges on genuine commitment from all parties involved. If Villa Somalia recognizes the significance of Garowe’s leadership in bridging divides and resolving crises, another opportunity for progress awaits Somalia. The path forward demands unity, cooperation, and a steadfast dedication to Somalia’s peace and prosperity.