Nairobi, – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has welcomed the political agreement on Somalia’s electoral framework reached between the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and members of the opposition coalition known as the Salvation Forum.
In a statement issued from his office, IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu hailed the deal as a significant step toward unity, stability, and reconciliation in Somalia. He also congratulated President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for what IGAD described as his “firm commitment to guiding the country through a path of peace, unity, and solidarity.”
The communiqué emphasized that dialogue and negotiation on unresolved issues remain critical pathways to achieving lasting peace, state-building, and democratic transformation in Somalia. “It is important that Somali leaders continue this spirit of dialogue to advance towards sustainable peace and inclusive governance,” the statement read.
Dr. Gebeyehu further urged all Somali stakeholders to embrace the spirit of compromise reflected in the agreement, underscoring that mutual concessions are essential in reaching durable solutions. He reaffirmed IGAD’s continued commitment to supporting Somalia in close cooperation with both its leadership and people, with the aim of fostering peace, stability, and socio-economic development.
Somalia’s political process has faced persistent challenges over the past decade, including disputes between federal and regional authorities, questions over electoral models, and recurrent tensions between the government and opposition groups. The Salvation Forum – a coalition of opposition leaders and former officials – has been vocal in demanding a transparent and inclusive electoral roadmap, often clashing with the federal government over timelines and procedures.
IGAD, which comprises eight member states from the Horn of Africa and Eastern Africa, has long played a mediating role in Somali affairs, from facilitating peace negotiations to supporting electoral processes and security reforms. The organization’s endorsement of this latest agreement signals regional backing for Somalia’s fragile but ongoing political reconciliation.
The agreement between the Federal Government and the Salvation Forum is being viewed as a potentially stabilizing development in Somalia’s complex political landscape. With IGAD’s endorsement and the call for sustained dialogue, the deal could pave the way for smoother preparations ahead of Somalia’s next electoral cycle. However, its long-term success will depend on consistent implementation, trust-building, and the willingness of all Somali actors to prioritize national interests over factional divides.
