MOGADISHU — The Federal Government of Somalia and opposition groups appear to be moving closer to an understanding on key aspects of the country’s electoral process, following talks facilitated by Türkiye and international partners.

Sources familiar with the discussions say the two sides have made progress on several major issues, particularly the principle of holding elections based on universal suffrage.

Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama said the negotiations had advanced and were now focused on the practical arrangements required to implement the proposed electoral model.

Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame, leader of the Wadajir Party and a member of the Somali Future Council delegation, said the opposition had accepted the principle of holding a one-person, one-vote election.

However, he said the existing 4.5 clan-based power-sharing system should remain in place on a transitional basis until the country establishes an inclusive electoral framework supported by a broad political consensus.

The Nabad iyo Nolol political movement, led by former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, has also expressed support for a one-person, one-vote election conducted through a multiparty political system.

The movement said its position was broadly consistent with the electoral principles currently being promoted by the Federal Government.

Despite the emerging consensus on universal suffrage, significant differences remain over the implementation of the electoral process.

Outstanding issues include the structure and composition of the electoral commission, the mechanism for conducting the polls and the political agreement required to provide a legitimate and widely accepted foundation for Somalia’s elections.

The outcome of the talks is expected to play a critical role in determining whether Somalia’s political stakeholders can reach a unified electoral framework and avoid further disputes over the country’s next national elections.