According to informed sources, Western governments and international partners view Ankara's initiative as an attempt to take over a mediation process that they have been leading for months through diplomatic engagement with Somali political stakeholders.

The development comes amid growing political tensions in Somalia and ongoing disputes over elections, governance, and constitutional legitimacy.

Somali opposition leaders have also expressed skepticism regarding Turkey's role, arguing that Ankara cannot be considered a neutral mediator because of its close political, military, and diplomatic ties with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's administration.

Sources told Waagacusub Media that Turkey's mediation efforts have encountered both technical and political obstacles. Although discussions were underway to establish technical committees representing both the Federal Government and opposition groups, disagreements quickly emerged over which opposition actors should participate in the talks.

Turkey reportedly sought to include representatives aligned with former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, who remains critical of President Hassan Sheikh's political agenda. However, members of the Future Council opposition coalition rejected the proposal, insisting that negotiations should take place directly between Villa Somalia and their coalition without recognizing a third opposition bloc.

The disagreement has reportedly delayed the planned talks and complicated Ankara's efforts to launch formal negotiations.

Sources further indicated that Turkish mediators informed Somali political actors that they may temporarily return to Ankara until Somali stakeholders agree on the structure and participants of the proposed dialogue.

Meanwhile, members of the international C6+ partnership are said to have increased diplomatic pressure on Ankara, arguing that mediation efforts should remain inclusive and internationally coordinated rather than being led by a single foreign actor.

Western diplomats reportedly maintain that they have long been engaged in efforts to facilitate dialogue among Somali political leaders and believe Turkey should play a supporting role rather than assume sole responsibility for the process.

Neither the Turkish government nor international representatives have publicly commented on the reported disagreements.

The developments highlight the growing competition among international actors seeking influence over Somalia's political transition while Somali stakeholders remain divided over the path toward a negotiated settlement.

By Dahir Alasow