UN supports planned talks between Somali government and opposition groups

Monday May 4, 2026

Mogadishu (HOL) — The United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) has welcomed an invitation by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to the Somali Future Council for a high-level meeting in Mogadishu on May 10, as political tensions rise ahead of the end of his term.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday, UNTMIS called on all parties to engage in constructive dialogue in good faith, emphasizing that the interests of the Somali people should remain the top priority.

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“UNTMIS welcomes the Federal Government of Somalia’s invitation to the Somali Future Council for a meeting aimed at jointly finding a way forward on critical national priorities,” the mission said. “We renew our call for all parties involved to participate in further dialogue constructively and in good faith, with the interest of all Somalis as the foremost consideration. Together with other partners, UNTMIS stands ready to support Somali efforts to resolve outstanding issues.”

The UN statement follows similar reactions from international partners, including the United Kingdom and the European Union. Earlier, UK Ambassador to Somalia Charles King and EU Ambassador Francesca Di Mauro both welcomed the federal government’s invitation to the Somali Future Council.

In a statement issued Saturday, the presidency said the invitation follows consultations held by President Hassan Sheikh with various sectors of society. The planned meeting is expected to focus on key national priorities, including the country’s political future and the electoral process.

The development comes with less than two weeks remaining before the president’s current term is set to expire on May 15, with no agreement yet reached on the electoral model or timeline.

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