MOGADISHU, Somalia — Jubbaland President Ahmed Madobe left Mogadishu Monday, flying back to Kismayo after talks with the federal government collapsed without agreement.
Opposition leaders had gathered for days at the Halane camp near the airport, hoping to reach consensus on elections and constitutional reforms.
The opposition said the main dispute was the 2012 Provisional Constitution, insisting changes require a nationwide agreement, while the government would push amendments unilaterally.
Disagreements over elections added tension, with the opposition demanding overdue votes follow state constitutions and federal principles, while the government preferred contested regional elections instead.
The opposition accused President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of applying political pressure and spreading media stories to undermine trust, creating distrust that further complicated already fragile negotiations.
Puntland President Said Deni, present in the capital during talks, also left without agreement, leaving Somalia’s political future at a fragile and uncertain crossroads.
The U.S. Embassy in Mogadishu called on both sides to compromise, saying dialogue and concessions are difficult but essential to ensure meaningful results in negotiations.
The embassy said a united Somali-led political process could strengthen governance, counter terrorism, and advance priorities important to Somalia and the international community.
As Madobe’s plane lifted off, the capital remained tense. Political divisions over elections and constitutional reforms continue, with the nation facing uncertainty in the months ahead.