President Hassan Sheikh has sought Turkiye’s mediation after weeks of standoff between the federal government and the regional state of Southwest, highlighting Somalia’s deepening ties with Turkey, a key security and development partner.
According to official sources, President Hassan requested Turkish Ambassador to Somalia, Alper Aktas, to mediate between him and Southwest state leader Abdiaziz Laftagareen.
Tensions have risen as the federal government and Southwest state hold conflicting views on several critical national issues.
The President’s request includes assurances from Turkiye to handle Laftagareen’s security during his travels, addressing any concerns that might arise.
According to Somali media, Laftagareen received the message and agreed to the mediation, stating that while he has no objection to visiting Mogadishu, he sees no urgent need for the trip.
Recently, unconfirmed reports suggested that the federal government had deployed elite forces to Barawe in the Southwest to suppress potential uprisings, but Mogadishu dismissed these claims as “fake news.”
The ongoing dispute also involves Southwest’s objections to replacing Ethiopian troops in the AU peacekeeping mission with Egyptian forces, citing concerns over Ethiopia’s intentions.
Adding to the complexity, Somalia has accused Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of annexation plans following his agreement with Somaliland, which grants Ethiopia access to the Red Sea.
The controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) would allow Ethiopia to build a port and military base in exchange for recognizing Somaliland’s independence.
Somalia has vehemently opposed this deal, defending its sovereignty at international forums.
Despite a recent postponement of the third round of Ethiopia-Somalia talks scheduled for September 17, Turkiye remains active in mediation.
Analysts suggest Somalia would not have participated in the talks without Turkiye’s involvement, underscoring the growing trust between Somali leaders and Turkiye in resolving disputes.
President Hassan Sheikh is keen to meet Laftagareen and has attempted to engage him through discussions with Gen. Mahad Abdirahman, a close ally of the Southwest leader.
However, analysts believe Hassan Sheikh’s insistence on Laftagareen’s presence in Mogadishu stems from broader concerns, including Somalia’s firm stance against Ethiopian military involvement.
Somalia continues to grapple with significant challenges, including the persistent threat of Al-Shabaab, as internal political divisions and disputes hinder national stability.
The country remains reliant on international support to combat the militant group, which aims to undermine the UN-backed federal government.