Turkey could mediate Somalia's political crisis, says professor

Professor Afyare Abdi Elmi of Mogadishu City University suggests that Turkey could play a positive role in resolving the current political crisis in Somalia. The dispute between the Somali government and the opposition centers on approximately seven contentious issues, including election systems, commission structures, and security matters.

Elmi notes that Turkey possesses influence over both the government and the opposition, making it a potential mediator similar to its role in the Somalia-Ethiopia mediation process. He emphasizes that the relationship between Turkey and Somalia is strategic and transcends individual administrations, involving interests in hydrocarbons, fisheries, the blue economy, security, and a space base project.

The political instability poses security risks, as the militant group Al-Shabaab may exploit internal government divisions. While Turkey, the United States, the United Kingdom, the United Nations, and the European Union are all involved in diplomatic contacts, the government and opposition are expected to meet again next week to address the impasse.