MOGADISHU (SD)-The Somali government has denied being in negotiations with Al-Shabaab, as claimed by MP Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame.

National Security Advisor Hussein Mahmoud announced on his X (Twitter) page that there are no ongoing discussions between the Federal Government of Somalia and Al-Shabaab.

Hussein Macalin stated that any possible negotiations would require Al-Shabaab to meet certain conditions set by the President, including severing ties with international terrorist organizations, respecting Somalia’s sovereignty, and pursuing their political agenda peacefully.

The security advisor’s remarks were responding to MP Abdirahman Abdishakur who
claimed Norway and Qatar were set to mediate between the Federal government and AS.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who recently visited Norway, mentioned that his administration is open to talks with Al-Shabaab if they are willing to meet the set conditions.

The President also noted that any entity capable of facilitating negotiations with Al-Shabaab is welcome.

On the other hand, Al-Shabaab has not yet responded to these developments. The group has previously stated that they will not negotiate with the Federal Government of Somalia.