Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has criticized the current federal government leadership following the collapse of the National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting, which ended inconclusively after two weeks of talks in Mogadishu.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Farmaajo expressed disappointment, stating that the failure of the meeting has deepened divisions, created confusion, and left the Somali people uncertain.
He attributed the setbacks to the regional states being blocked from holding elections after their constitutional terms expired, the suspension of the constitution, and what he described as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s desire to remain in power through unlawful means.
“The failure of this meeting frustrates and divides the Somali people, leaving the country in a state of confusion and uncertainty,” Farmaajo remarked. He called on the government to return to “the framework of law and governance” and to meet its obligations to implement an inclusive political system, which he believes is essential to addressing the political, security, and economic challenges facing Somalia.
Farmaajo stressed that the inconclusiveness of the NCC meeting, which has further alienated the heads of regional governments, would have serious consequences for the country’s political and governance future.
“We urge the Federal Parliamentarians to stand up for the rescue of the country and to ensure the salvation of our government,” he added.
The former president also emphasized that the responsibility for implementing national elections, establishing committees, and completing constitutional reviews is a collective duty shared by the Somali people, government, and political leaders at both federal and state levels. He warned that no one should be allowed to manipulate these processes for personal gain.
The NCC meeting, which began on October 2, 2024, was intended to address key national issues. However, Jubbaland President Ahmed Madobe’s withdrawal and Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni’s continued boycott over exclusivity further derailed the talks, leaving the political atmosphere tense and uncertain.
Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre emphasized that discussions among the remaining leaders would continue and the meeting would resume on October 26.
