AU Commission Chair Youssouf urges dialogue, restraint amid Somalia tensions
African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf called for “maximum restraint” and immediate dialogue following a surge in political tensions within Somalia’s South West State.
In a statement issued by AU on Sunday, March 29, Youssouf confirmed he is “closely following developments” in the region, urging all Somali stakeholders to prioritise peace to avoid a security or humanitarian crisis.
The Chairperson underscored the importance of the National Consultative Council (NCC), describing it as an “important framework for inclusive dialogue and consensus-building.”
He encouraged all parties to make “constructive use of this platform to resolve differences peacefully.”
The call for calm comes as resistance persists between the Federal Government and Federal Member States.
Youssouf emphasised that these differences should be addressed through dialogue, stressing that national unity and cooperation remain paramount for the country’s future.
Expressing concern over the “potential impact on Somalia’s stability, security, unity, and humanitarian situation,” the Chairperson appealed to all involved parties to “avoid actions that could lead to escalation.”
The African Union reaffirm “full support for Somalia’s peace, stability, and state-building efforts,” noting its readiness to facilitate ongoing reconciliation efforts.
