SOMALIA: National Consultative Council Convenes After Delay

MOGADISHU – President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud presided over the official opening of the National Consultative Council (NCC) Meeting in Mogadishu on Monday.

The NCC convenes as part of the broader national dialogue process initiated by the President to foster unity, strengthen intergovernmental cooperation, and advance consultation.

The National Consultative Council (NCC) stands as the highest decision-making authority in Somalia, bringing together the President, Prime Minister, and leaders of federal member states to deliberate on matters of national importance.

The council is tasked with guiding the country through key political, security, and governance reforms.

Its resolutions carry significant weight, often setting the tone for policy direction and intergovernmental cooperation across the Somalia.

NCC Leaders Begin Talks on Delayed National Priorities on Monday. Photo/ OPM

Leaders from the Federal Government of Somalia, several Federal Member States, the Banadir Regional Administration and SSC-Khatumo will deliberate on critical national priorities, including enhancing coordinated efforts in the ongoing offensive to eradicate international terrorism in Somalia.

Puntland and Jubaland Presidents boycotted the talks. Reliable sources cite grievances over the federal overreach and alleged violations of the provisional constitution.

The Jubaland State of Somalia expressed concerns that the national ID card initiative, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, is an attempt to centralize power and undermine regional autonomy.

The autonomous government in Kimsyu accused the federal leadership of using the ID card as a tool for political gain ahead of upcoming elections, rather than as a genuine effort to establish a unified national identification system.

The President Hassan Sheikh les Coalition is rooting for a unified local council; with elections envisaged to start at district-level elections across all Federal Member States (FMSs) followed by state-level parliamentary and presidential elections.

President Hassan Sheikh Chairs Crucial National Consultative Session. Photo/ OPM

Political parties would contest in the district elections, with the two parties gaining the most number of council seats then recognised as Somalia’s two national parties.

The formula has been strongly opposed by Jubaland and Puntland states. It will necessitate significant changes in the current provisional federal constitution.