(23 March 2024) GAROWE (Halqabsi News) — Former Somali Presidents Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, and Puntland’s leader Said Deni gathered in Garowe, the capital of the Nugaal region, on Saturday to discuss reforms to the nation’s Transitional Constitution. The crucial meeting also saw the participation of Puntland’s Vice President and legislative members from both chambers of the Federal Parliament.
Amidst a backdrop of escalating political tensions, the assembly focused on the contentious topic of amending the Transitional Constitution, a subject that has long sparked debate in Somali political circles.
The drive to amend the constitution, currently championed by a parliamentary committee with the support of the Villa Somalia group, finds itself at a decisive moment. Opposition factions, represented in part by the high-profile figures meeting in Garowe, are uniting against the proposed changes, highlighting the deep divisions within Somali politics.
In a national address delivered yesterday, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud highlighted the critical need to move forward with the constitution, which has remained in draft form for an extended period. He called for a unified effort to progress towards a finalized document.
The Garowe summit could indicate a significant shift in the political landscape, with Sharif, Farmajo, and Deni reportedly aiming to form a coalition to counter President Hassan Sheikh’s plans for constitutional amendments, signalling a collective stand against the initiatives led by Villa Somalia.
This meeting’s timing is especially significant, emerging amid increasing conflict between Puntland’s leader, Said Deni, and President Hassan Sheikh, adding layers of complexity to Somalia’s already intricate political scene.
Halqabsi News
