Nairobi – November 13, 2024 – The head of the European Union Delegation to Somalia, Ambassador Karin Jhansson, met with Southwest State President Abdiaziz Laftagaren during his official visit to Nairobi. The high-level discussions focused on several critical issues affecting Southwest State and Somalia as a whole, including security, political developments, and ongoing EU-supported development programs.
One of the key topics discussed was the political and security situation in Southwest State, including the region’s upcoming elections. Both leaders also touched on the broader implications of Somalia’s electoral reforms, particularly the recent direct election process that has been endorsed by some members of the National Consultative Council (NCC). This initiative, hailed as a significant breakthrough in Somalia’s democratization efforts, aims to establish a “one person, one vote” system. However, the proposal has faced opposition from regional states like Puntland and Jubaland, which have rejected the outcome of the NCC meeting and the process itself.
Ambassador Karin and President Laftagaren also reviewed ongoing and future development programs supported by the European Union. President Laftagaren expressed his appreciation for the EU’s substantial contributions, highlighting the positive impact of EU assistance on the people of Southwest State and the broader Somali population.
“I would like to thank Ambassador Karen and the European Union for their unwavering support,” President Laftagaren said. “The assistance we have received has been vital in promoting peace, stability, and development in Southwest State and beyond.”
The meeting comes at a particularly sensitive moment in Somali politics, as the National Consultative Council’s recent meeting in Mogadishu concluded without the participation of Jubaland and Puntland, two powerful regional states that have long played a key role in Somalia’s political landscape. This absence underscores the ongoing political deadlock that continues to challenge the country’s unity and governance.
It remains unclear whether Ambassador Karen discussed any specific strategies for mediation between the Federal Government of Somalia and the two missing member states, Puntland and Jubaland. The European Union, like many international actors, is often seen playing a neutral role in helping to facilitate dialogue between the federal government and regional administrations. Given the stakes for Somalia’s fragile peace, the international community has been increasingly focused on encouraging consensus-building and conflict resolution.
While the EU has long been an important partner in Somalia’s reconstruction efforts, the political impasse between the federal government and regional states remains a significant challenge to the country’s long-term stability. As Somalia moves forward with electoral reforms and other key governance issues, the EU’s continued diplomatic engagement and development support will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s future.
Ambassador Karen’s meeting with President Laftagaren reflects the EU’s ongoing commitment to Somalia’s peace-building process, even as the political landscape remains in flux.