By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
Somalia, 20 December 2025 Somalia’s President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has said that his administration is ready to listen to and engage with any views or decisions emerging from the ongoing Kismayo Conference, organized by members of the opposition, provided they are grounded in the country’s system of governance and constitution.
The president made the remarks during the 82nd anniversary celebration of the establishment of the Somali Police Force, held today in Mogadishu. where he directly addressed politicians and officials taking part in the Kismayo meeting which opened on Thursday.
President Hassan Sheikh stressed that the government is not opposed to dialogue or mutual understanding, but underscored that political debates must be based on clear, constructive proposals that contribute to strengthening state institutions. He cited as an example a previous engagement involving a rescue platform that reached an understanding with Villa Somalia.
“Anything that is disputed can be discussed and listened to, but proper politics takes place within the framework of state institutions,” the president said.
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He noted that electoral laws, the political parties law, and the approved constitution form the foundation on which the government stands, adding that authorities are prepared to debate any contested issues if they are presented clearly and comprehensibly.
The president also criticized officials currently holding office particularly those attending the Kismayo Conference urging them to express their political views within formal state institutions, such as Parliament and the National Consultative Council, rather than outside official governance frameworks.
The remarks come as the Kismayo Conference, bringing together opposition politicians and leaders, kicked off in Jubaland State. The opposition leaders are convening to discuss Somalia’s political direction, electoral processes, and the country’s future governance path.
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