Somalia’s opposition coalition has urged President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to lay out a clear national strategy to tackle rising political divisions and militant threats, warning that the country’s unity is at risk.
The Somali Salvation Forum said cohesion, a shared vision, and decisive action are crucial to navigating Somalia through its political transition and defending national sovereignty.
In a statement released on Sunday following consultations on December 27, 2025, the forum said it met with the President, the Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister, and cabinet members in an atmosphere of responsibility and national unity.
The discussions focused on ways to strengthen national cohesion and develop a unified approach to safeguarding Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The coalition highlighted that addressing the root causes of political fragmentation is essential. It said, “Long-standing grievances and unresolved political disputes had weakened national cohesion and must be tackled through inclusive and principled leadership.”
During the meeting, the forum explored the underlying reasons behind internal divisions and discussed how to turn current challenges into opportunities for greater cooperation and unity.
The coalition stressed that Somalia needs a coordinated national response to protect the state during the transition period.
At the heart of the forum’s message was a call for clarity from the presidency. It urged President Mohamud to present a clear national strategy to confront the twin challenges of national fragmentation and terrorism, saying such a plan is vital to protect the country from further instability and to restore public confidence in leadership.
The forum also stressed the importance of decisive and responsible action to resolve internal disputes. It emphasized the need for a shared vision that can guide Somalia through uncertain times, ensuring the existence of a legitimate state capable of defending the nation from both current and emerging threats.
The coalition pledged its full support to initiatives aimed at safeguarding Somalia’s unity and sovereignty, and urged the President to implement the recommendations discussed during the consultations.
“We expect the President to take forward the practical recommendations exchanged during the consultations and to translate dialogue into action,” the statement said.
Beyond government engagement, the Somali Salvation Forum called on the wider public to unite in defence of the country’s independence and territorial integrity. It warned that both internal divisions and external threats could only be overcome through national solidarity.
The statement emphasized that political agreement and collective determination are essential to overcoming fragmentation and building a stable future. “Unity and political consensus were the only viable path to confronting the challenges facing the country,” the forum said.
Framing its message as both a warning and an offer of cooperation, the coalition reiterated the need for clear leadership and a shared commitment to Somalia’s future.
“The moment demanded unity of purpose and a shared commitment to safeguarding Somalia’s future,” the statement said, concluding with a call for all Somalis to rally behind national unity and sovereignty.
