Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The recent declarations by Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud concerning prospective negotiations with the militant group Al-Shabaab have ignited a critical discourse. During his visit to Oslo, Norway, President Mohamud asserted that the ultimate aim of the ongoing military operations against Al-Shabab is to bring them to the negotiating table.

He noted, however, that Al-Shabab has yet to demonstrate a willingness to engage in dialogue. This nuanced stance was further complicated by subsequent clarifications from Somali officials, indicating that no negotiations are currently underway. This commentary examines the implications of these statements and the broader strategic communication challenges facing the Somali government.

President Mohamud’s articulation of a future dialogue objective, while asserting no current negotiations, appears to cater to distinct audiences with divergent expectations. On the international stage, the narrative of being open to dialogue with insurgents might be perceived as a pragmatic approach aimed at garnering diplomatic support and possibly facilitating indirect negotiations through intermediaries. Conversely, within Somalia, the emphasis on a hardline stance serves to reassure a populace weary of Al-Shabaab’s enduring insurgency and skeptical of any perceived leniency towards the group.

This dual messaging, though strategically understandable, presents a conundrum in terms of coherence and public perception. The president’s statements in Oslo should be viewed as an extension of official policy rather than a source of ambiguity. The inconsistency between international declarations and domestic reassurances underscores the necessity for a meticulously calibrated communication strategy that aligns with both the operational realities and the strategic objectives of the Somali government.

Mohammed Hirmoge, a communications consultant and former Head of  Strategic Communications at At Villa Somalia, noted, “Effective negotiation requires a foundation of trust and clarity. Mixed messages from the government can erode the very trust needed to initiate dialogue.” This highlights the importance of consistent and clear communication from the Somali government to both domestic and international audiences.

The potential involvement of third-party mediators, such as Norway and Qatar, is a common practice in conflict resolution, particularly in scenarios involving non-state actors like Al-Shabaab. These intermediaries often facilitate the preliminary stages of dialogue, laying the groundwork for more substantive negotiations. The speculation surrounding the roles of these countries highlights the intricate geopolitical dynamics at play and the importance of leveraging international goodwill and expertise in the pursuit of peace.

Al-Shabaab’s dismissive response to the president’s overtures, claiming unyielded strength and continued operational capacity, reveals a group far from being incapacitated. The recent spate of attacks, characterized by their complexity and lethality, attests to Al-Shabaab’s resilience and tactical adaptability. These incidents challenge the Somali government’s narrative of progress and underscore the necessity for a robust and multifaceted counterinsurgency strategy that incorporates both military and non-military measures.

Effective communication is pivotal in navigating the delicate terrain of insurgency and potential negotiations. Ideally, the process of exploring dialogue should commence at lower governmental echelons, progressively building towards higher-level engagement. This approach ensures a controlled and coherent narrative, minimizing the risk of public misinterpretation and fostering a conducive environment for eventual dialogue.

Ali Halane, Journalist, Columnist and former Correspondent t at BBC Arabic, emphasized, “Transparency and consistency are crucial in the government’s communication strategy. Without it, the public’s skepticism will only grow, undermining any potential progress towards peace.”

The government’s current communication approach, marked by the president’s premature and seemingly contradictory statements, necessitates a reevaluation. Transparent and strategic communication is essential to maintain public trust and manage expectations. Historically, successful negotiations with militant groups are predicated on clear objectives, trust-building measures, and often the involvement of neutral mediators. The Somali government must ensure that its public messaging aligns with these principles, thereby reinforcing its credibility and securing public support.

The broader question of whether the present moment is conducive to initiating negotiations with Al-Shabab hinges on multiple factors. These include the group’s operational strength, the government’s readiness for structured dialogue, and the prevailing security dynamics. The mixed public reactions to President Mohamud’s statements reflect an underlying skepticism and demand for clarity regarding the government’s long-term strategy against Al-Shabaab.

In conclusion, the path to successful negotiations with Al-Shabaab requires a consistent and transparent communication strategy, both within Somalia and in the international arena. The Somali government must adeptly balance the imperatives of gaining international support and maintaining domestic confidence in its counterinsurgency efforts. Only through a well-articulated and coherent strategy can the government navigate the complexities of negotiating with a resilient and formidable adversary like Al-Shabaab.