MOGADISHU (SD) – Political leaders and opposition figures are intensifying their responses to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s call for a national reconciliation conference. While former leaders and opposition politicians remain divided over participation, numerous prominent figures are seeking roles in the dialogue process.

The ambiguity surrounding the conference’s agenda and participants—with the president withholding details—has sparked widespread questions. Key opposition leaders, including Sheikh Sharif Ahmed, Hassan Ali Khaire, and Abdirahman Abdishakur, cautiously welcomed the initiative but demanded clarity on the agenda, timeline, and invitees.

Former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, appearing skeptical of Hassan Sheikh’s motives, redirected scrutiny by insisting the conference must include federal and regional stakeholders. In a statement, he urged:

“We emphasize that this forum must encompass all relevant parties at federal and state levels… President Hassan Sheikh must revise his approach and ensure genuine inclusivity.”

Outstanding questions for President Hassan Sheikh include:

Whether this is another state-managed conference like past initiatives;

If it will be a federal-level forum excluding regional states like Jubaland and Puntland;

The timeline and core agenda items.

The lack of transparency has reinvigorated sidelined politicians, parties, and individuals, who are now issuing statements to secure participation.

President Hassan Sheikh framed the conference as a platform for political leaders and civil society to submit proposals—partially addressing criticisms. However, observers suggest his focus is not on resolving the protracted Jubaland-Puntland dispute but buying time to bolster international support for the anti-terrorism campaign.

Recent endorsements came from former Prime Ministers Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmaake and Abdiweli Ali Gaas, along with ex-Parliament Speaker Sharif Hassan Sheikh Aden. Parties, advocacy groups, and pro-government figures also backed the initiative.

All eyes are now on the president to transform his vague call into actionable plans and address mounting concerns.