Mogadishu: National talks set to begin today, opposition yet to agree to attend

The presidency has invited opposition groups to national talks in Mogadishu from 14 to 18 November, after the president said his government is ready to sit down with anyone who holds a different view. However, the major opposition coalitions have not yet agreed to attend. Political tension has continued since the president's original term lapsed in May. The government then declared a transition period. Other reports, not fully verified, say the Supreme Court ruled on 5 November that the president's term has expired and ordered elections within 90 days. The government has rejected that ruling. Second story: US forces leave Baledogle American military forces have withdrawn from Baledogle Airfield in Somalia's Lower Shabelle region after more than 14 years. Xinhua reports that Somalia faces security risks as foreign troop withdrawals accelerate amid funding shortfalls.