Somalia's opposition leaders call for inclusive political settlement ahead of AUSSOM security transition
Somali opposition leaders are calling for an inclusive political settlement before the transition of the African Union security mission (AUSSOM). They argue that the current constitutional and political crisis threatens national stability and the fight against extremist groups.
Why it matters
Political legitimacy is essential for Somalia to successfully transition its security responsibilities and maintain long-term peace.
Political leaders in Somalia have appealed to African Union troop-contributing countries to prioritise an inclusive political settlement before implementing any further security transition under the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). In an open letter addressed to the Heads of State, Defence Ministers and Chiefs of Defence Forces of Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Djibouti, Burundi and Egypt, the Somali Future Council said restoring political legitimacy should be the foundation of efforts to secure lasting peace and stability in Somalia. The appeal comes ahead of a regional summit in Kampala expected to discuss the future of AUSSOM. The council, comprising a former Somali President, former Prime Ministers, the current Presidents of Jubaland and Puntland, former ministers and other senior political leaders, expressed appreciation for nearly two decades of military support by African countries in Somalia.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in