In what could signal hope to avert the simmering political tension in Somaliland, leaders of the three parties met on Wednesday morning at the Presidential palace and agreed to resume negations to solve their dispute.
This came after a mediating committee facilitated today’s face-to-face meeting. The speaker of the Guurti was also present at the meeting.
The meeting came amidst growing tension between President Muse Bihi and the opposition parties over the November 13 elections.
The opposition parties WADDANI and UCID have accused Bihi of masterminding a plan to extend his term in office.
A month ago, the opposition parties held street demonstrations leading to the arrest of several leaders and journalists. They have since been released without any charges being preferred against them after the intervention of traditional and religious elders.
In today’s meeting there were no substantive issues discussed. However, the opposition leaders insisted the mediating committee continue to be part of the initiatives and stay in future meetings.
The President preferred direct negotiations without third parties.
The next meeting will take place on 12 July 2022.
