Mogadishu, Somalia – April 21, 2025 – Former Somali Prime Minister and presidential contender Abdi Farah Shirdoon Saacid held high-level talks this week with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, amid growing concerns over the country’s security situation and the upcoming electoral process.
In a statement published on his official Facebook page, Shirdoon — who currently leads the Nagaad political party — expressed appreciation for the invitation to Villa Somalia and stressed the importance of national unity and inclusive dialogue in addressing Somalia’s mounting political and security challenges.
“I discussed with the nation’s top leaders that Somalia’s pressing political and security challenges must be resolved through broad consultation and consensus—particularly around the elections and constitutional amendments,” Shirdoon wrote. “The Somali people must come together to eliminate terrorism and support reforms that strengthen our national security forces.”
The meeting follows recent criticism from Shirdoon, who accused the federal government of failing to deliver basic public services such as healthcare and education. He also raised alarms over renewed activity by Al-Shabaab in parts of Middle and Lower Shabelle, suggesting that militants have regained ground previously cleared by government forces.
In response to rising criticism, President Mohamud has defended his administration’s security strategy, highlighting joint counterterrorism operations with U.S. and African Union forces, as well as ongoing efforts to recruit and professionalize Somalia’s armed forces.
Nonetheless, the security setbacks — including Al-Shabaab’s brief capture of the key town of Aadan Yabaal last week — have intensified scrutiny of the government’s ability to maintain momentum in the war against extremism.
Shirdoon’s engagement with top leadership signals renewed political dialogue at a crucial time, as Somalia seeks to stabilize ahead of critical electoral milestones and implement long-delayed constitutional reforms.
