Prime Minister Hamza urges opposition to join national dialogue

Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre said Wednesday that the federal government is prepared to listen to opposition views but will not tolerate actions or rhetoric that could undermine the country’s security and stability. Speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu, the prime minister criticized remarks made by some former national leaders now aligned with the opposition, warning against political statements that could inflame tensions. “I hope those statements, which are unbecoming of former leaders of the country, will stop,” Hamza said. He stressed that Somalia’s current stability had been achieved through the sacrifices of the Somali people and warned that political competition should not jeopardize national security gains. “Politics driven solely by the pursuit of power and supported by foreign interests should not damage the security and stability we have achieved,” he added. Hamza also urged opposition leaders to participate in the consultation forum announced by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, scheduled for May 10 in Mogadishu. The prime minister expressed hope that the meeting would produce political consensus and encourage constructive engagement among Somali stakeholders. His remarks come as opposition groups prepare for a planned demonstration on Sunday, the same day President Hassan Sheikh is expected to open talks between the federal government and opposition leaders amid rising political tensions over elections and the country’s constitutional future.