Int’l partners express concern over Somalia’s political standoff

The International community has urged Somalia’s leaders to de-escalate political tensions and to refrain from provocation or the use of force, which could undermine peace and stability.

In a statement, Somalia’s international partners expressed deep concern on Monday over the latest developments in the country. Urging the leaders to put the country’s interests first, it said a meeting between the National Consultative Council, which comprises federal and regional leaders, along with consultations among key stakeholders is urgently needed to accelerate and improve the process and bring elections to a rapid and credible conclusion.

The statement reads ” It is imperative that the Sept. 17, 2020 and May 27, 2021 agreements, which are the basis for elections, be implemented immediately without further distraction or disruption”

The statement comes as pro-opposition forces are building up troops in some parts of the capital Mogadishu as concerns over armed conflict rise. Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed on Monday suspended Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble over alleged corruption. Roble remained defiant and called the suspension “outrageous.”