MOGADISHU, Somalia — A closed-door meeting is underway between Turkey’s ambassador Alper Aktaş and opposition leaders amid rising political tensions and electoral disputes.
The meeting is being held at former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed’s residence, according to people familiar with the ongoing discussions.
Opposition figures are expected to raise concerns about foreign involvement and urge Turkey to maintain neutrality in Somalia’s political process.
Turkey remains a major political, security, and development partner in Somalia, influencing diplomatic dynamics amid the country’s ongoing political standoff.
Opposition leaders have intensified consultations with civil society groups, including elders, women’s organizations, and religious scholars, seeking broader consensus on political transition issues.
Further meetings with civil society representatives are planned as opposition groups continue gathering input on Somalia’s electoral process and political direction.
The talks come amid uncertainty over Somalia’s electoral framework and disputes over constitutional changes and proposed extensions of government authority.
This comes as Somali president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has 22 days left in his term despite seeking a one-year extension and re-election under one-person-one-vote rejected by opposition.