MOGADISHU (SD) – Somalia’s opposition leaders have issued a strong warning to Turkey’s ambassador in Mogadishu, Alper Aktaş, urging Ankara to refrain from involvement in the country’s internal political affairs.

According to sources within the Somali Future Council, a meeting held in Mogadishu focused on growing public concern over Turkey’s expanding role in Somalia. Opposition figures reportedly called on Turkey to halt what they described as “illegal” agreements, particularly in the oil sector, signed with the administration of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

The opposition stressed that agreements concerning national resources must follow constitutional procedures and involve all federal member states. They argued that the federal government alone cannot enter into such deals without national consensus, and declared existing agreements “null and void” pending parliamentary review and the establishment of a fully legitimate government.

The discussions also addressed security concerns, particularly the use of Turkish-trained forces and equipment in domestic conflicts.

Opposition leaders warned that such involvement risks escalating political tensions, especially as Somalia approaches a sensitive political transition, with the president’s term set to end on May 15, 2026, and the federal parliament’s term having recently expired.

Sources indicated that Ambassador Aktaş rejected claims of interference but expressed willingness for Turkey to avoid involvement in Somalia’s internal disputes. The meeting comes amid reports that Turkish-trained Gorgor forces and drones were used in recent operations in Baidoa.

The exchange highlights increasing friction between Somalia’s opposition and Turkey’s growing influence in the country. While Turkey remains a key partner in security and development, opposition groups are questioning the legality and transparency of agreements and military cooperation. This tension reflects broader political uncertainty in Somalia, where disputes over legitimacy, governance, and foreign involvement are intensifying ahead of a critical transition period.