What the attendance of SSC-Khatumo leader in the National Consultative Council summit means for Somalia’s unity

By: Hassan Yarrow

MOGADISHU—In an unprecedented move towards national reconciliation, the leader of the Sool, Sanaag and Cayn (SSC) region, Abdikhadir Ahmed Aw-Ali Firdhiye, has for the first time attended the National Consultative Council summit in Mogadishu on Thursday.

The National Consultative Council, which comprises federal and regional state leaders, welcomed Firdhiye’s presence and offered him the much-needed platform to provide an update on the general situation in the SSC-Khatumo areas. Khatumo State broke off from the breakaway administration of Somaliland after intense political and armed conflict that lasted for nearly year.

The council, according to a statement, “emphasized the importance of ensuring that the SSC region obtains its rightful constitutional rights from the Federal Government of Somalia.”

“This is a momentous occasion, as it marks a significant step towards bridging the divide and fostering greater unity within Somalia,” said President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who presides over the summit.

“The participation of the SSC-Khatumo leader demonstrates a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue and find solutions to the long-standing challenges facing our nation,” he added.

The federal and regional state leaders lauded the SSC-Khatumo administration for its efforts in protecting the unity and independence of the Republic of Somalia, a sentiment that was echoed by Firdhiye himself.

“We are here to contribute to the discussions and search for lasting solutions that will benefit all Somalis, regardless of their regional affiliations,” Firdhiye stated.

“Our goal is to ensure that the SSC region is granted the recognition and rights it deserves within the framework of a united and prosperous Somalia.” SSC leader added

The National Consultative Council meeting also touched on other crucial issues, including the country’s political situation, security, and preparations for the upcoming federal and regional elections.

Reports suggest that the SSC-Khatumo leader will engage in separate meetings with President Mohamud and other federal regional leaders.

According to several political analysts, the meeting marked a “landmark development in the Somali political landscape,” generating a “widespread optimism and renewed hope for national unity and reconciliation.”

The inclusion of the SSC-Khatumo leadership in the national dialogue, according to observers, paves the way for a more inclusive and representative centralised Somali government, dimming Somaliland’s clamour for independence.

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