Mogadishu – May 9, 2025 – The United States has strongly opposed the recent decisions made at Somalia’s National Consultative Forum held in Mogadishu on May 6–7, 2025, citing concerns over the lack of inclusivity and potential political and security repercussions.
In a statement released by the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs (@AsstSecStateAF), Washington emphasized:
“All relevant stakeholders should have a say in changes to Somalia’s federal and election systems. Decisions taken without broad-based support will lack legitimacy and distract from pressing security challenges.”
The statement came shortly after Villa Somalia published an official communiqué summarizing the outcomes of the forum, which was attended by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the Presidents of Galmudug, Hirshabelle, South West States, and the Prime Minister of the Federal Government.
While the forum addressed critical issues including constitutional reforms, electoral processes, and federal governance, it notably excluded some Federal Member States and opposition leaders — a move that has drawn sharp criticism both domestically and internationally.
Political figures and administrations who were not present have condemned the outcomes as “unilateral” and warned that such an approach could fuel division and political distrust.
As a longstanding partner in Somalia’s state-building and security efforts, the U.S. urged the Somali government and all political stakeholders to return to the table for genuine and inclusive dialogue that reflects national consensus.
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