Federal Government of Somalia Reaffirms Willingness to Hold Delayed Meeting with Somalia’s Future Council

Written by Abdiasis Farah Said, Mogadishu.

Mogadishu — The Federal Government of Somalia has released a press statement today reaffirming its commitment and readiness to convene the delayed meeting with the so-called Somalia’s Future Council, which was originally scheduled to take place on 1 February 2026 in Mogadishu.According to the statement, the meeting failed to take place due to disagreements between the Federal Government and leaders of Puntland and Jubaland states over the number of soldiers and weapons that regional leaders would be permitted to bring into Mogadishu. Federal authorities reportedly imposed restrictions citing security concerns in the capital.The situation escalated further last Sunday when the Federal Government banned two airplanes arriving from Puntland and Jubaland, which were allegedly carrying nearly 200 soldiers along with heavy weaponry. Officials say this move was taken to enforce federal security regulations but ultimately heightened tensions between the parties and led to the postponement of the meeting.In today’s statement, the Federal Government expressed regret over the actions taken by some regional leaders, stating that their conduct contributed to unnecessary escalation and delayed a critical national dialogue. Despite this, the government emphasized that it remains open and fully prepared to host the meeting as soon as possible.The Federal Government reiterated that the purpose of the proposed meeting is to address key national issues, including the electoral process, national security arrangements, and the preservation of Somalia’s unity. Officials stressed that dialogue and cooperation remain the preferred path forward to resolving political disagreements.The statement concluded by urging all stakeholders to prioritize national interests and stability, and to engage in constructive dialogue to move the country forward.