Caaqil News - Former President of Somalia and current presidential hopeful, Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, held a high-profile meeting in Mogadishu with the Turkish Ambassador to Somalia, Alper Aktaş, to discuss pressing political developments, security matters, and the role of international partners in navigating Somalia’s electoral crisis.
The meeting, which took place amid growing tension over upcoming elections, focused on the fragile state of Somalia’s democracy, the ongoing efforts by international allies like Turkey in rebuilding the nation, and the concerns raised by the opposition over what they describe as plans by Villa Somalia to engineer an illegitimate electoral process.
A Crucial Dialogue Amid Uncertainty
The former president, who also served as the head of the Transitional Federal Government from 2009 to 2012, used the opportunity to express his deep concerns about the current political environment. Sheikh Sharif warned Ambassador Aktaş against any potential Turkish support for what he termed “a rigged election process” that the current government might be planning to conduct without broad-based consensus.
“Our meeting centered around the overall state of the country, Turkey’s steadfast support to the Somali people, the disputed electoral arrangements, and the ongoing fight against terrorism,” Sheikh Sharif stated after the meeting.
He emphasized the necessity for Somalia’s partners to remain neutral and to support democratic principles that reinforce inclusivity, transparency, and national unity.
Somalia's Electoral Turbulence
The East African nation is currently navigating a period of political volatility, with the government of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud accused by opposition leaders of orchestrating a process designed to entrench itself in power. Critics argue that Villa Somalia, the presidential palace and seat of power, is circumventing previously agreed frameworks, particularly those concerning the Federal Member States and opposition stakeholders.
Several prominent politicians, including Sheikh Sharif, have raised alarm bells over what they see as efforts to replicate the chaos witnessed during previous election cycles. In those instances, political disagreements over electoral models, voter registration, and venue disputes delayed elections and threatened national stability.
“Elections in Somalia cannot be the exclusive affair of one political faction,” Sheikh Sharif warned. “We cannot afford another divisive cycle. The country needs healing and leadership that brings everyone together.”
Turkey’s Strategic Role in Somalia
Turkey has long maintained a strong diplomatic and developmental presence in Somalia. From humanitarian relief efforts to infrastructure development, including roads, hospitals, and the largest foreign military training facility in Somalia, Turkey’s role in the Horn of Africa nation is both strategic and influential.
As a result, the Turkish government is often seen not just as a development partner, but as a stakeholder in Somalia’s political and security architecture. Sheikh Sharif’s message to Ambassador Aktaş was therefore direct: continue to support the Somali people, but avoid siding with any party looking to subvert democratic norms.
“Turkey’s support has been invaluable,” Sheikh Sharif noted. “But with influence comes responsibility. We ask our Turkish brothers to stand with the Somali people, not just with the government of the day.”
Concerns Over Security and Al-Shabaab
Beyond electoral politics, the conversation also touched on national security, particularly the enduring threat posed by the Al-Shabaab militant group. While Somali forces, supported by regional allies and international troops under ATMIS (African Union Transition Mission in Somalia), have made gains, Al-Shabaab remains a lethal insurgent force.
The former president called for more structured international assistance in equipping and training Somali forces. He also emphasized the need to boost local governance and public trust in state institutions — critical components in preventing extremist groups from exploiting political vacuums.
“Counterterrorism is not just about military offensives,” Sheikh Sharif said. “It’s about legitimacy, good governance, and ensuring our youth have a future beyond war.”
Opposition Unity and Strategic Messaging
Sheikh Sharif’s political camp has in recent months been working to consolidate opposition forces under a unified agenda. There is an apparent consensus among several candidates and political actors that any election must be held under transparent and inclusive frameworks — with meaningful consultations involving all stakeholders.
The former president’s meeting with the Turkish ambassador is part of a broader diplomatic initiative to court regional and international support for this cause. According to sources close to the meeting, Sheikh Sharif emphasized the dangers of unilateralism, warning that if elections proceed without opposition participation or oversight, it could plunge Somalia into another cycle of instability.
“The stakes are too high,” he reportedly told the ambassador. “The Somali people have suffered enough. We must not repeat the mistakes of the past.”
Ambassador Aktaş: A Key Diplomatic Player
Ambassador Alper Aktaş, who was appointed to Somalia amid the shifting political landscape in Ankara and the Horn of Africa, is considered a critical conduit between Mogadishu and Ankara. Turkey’s nuanced diplomacy requires careful balancing — supporting Somalia’s sovereign government while maintaining relationships with other political actors.
While the Turkish embassy has not yet issued a statement on the meeting, analysts suggest that the Turkish envoy is keenly aware of Somalia’s complex internal dynamics. “Turkey doesn’t want to be seen as interfering,” said one diplomat, “but at the same time, they’re expected to promote stability and inclusivity. That’s a fine line to walk.”
The Road Ahead: Hope or Hazard?
As Somalia inches closer to its next electoral phase, the path forward remains uncertain. While the government insists it is committed to democratic processes, the opposition remains unconvinced, citing what they claim are backroom maneuvers aimed at extending the current administration’s mandate or sidelining dissenting voices.
In this tense climate, meetings like the one between Sheikh Sharif and Ambassador Aktaş serve not just as diplomatic engagements but as strategic messaging tools — aimed at rallying support, highlighting grievances, and influencing outcomes.
A Call for Dialogue and Unity
In closing, Sheikh Sharif reiterated the need for all Somali leaders to put the country’s interest above personal ambition. He urged a return to dialogue and consensus-building — anchored in the principles of justice, fairness, and inclusivity.
“We are not enemies,” he said. “We are all sons and daughters of Somalia. Let us build together, not tear each other down.”
Whether these words will translate into actionable unity remains to be seen. But one thing is clear — Somalia’s fragile democracy stands at a critical crossroads, and the decisions made in the coming weeks will shape its trajectory for years to come.
