Somalia leaders urged to stop regional affairs interference

[Deeq A.]

MOGADISHU (Caasimada Online) — Somalia’s five regional leaders accused central government of interfering regional issues, amid on-going political rifts.

The central government was urged to stop to use Somali army forces and regional soldiers from Galmudug state over the latest political tension, said in a statement obtained by Caasimada Online.

The allegation comes after Somalia’s member states broke ties with the federal government on Sept. 8, plunging the country into a political crisis.

The country has struggled with civil war for decades, and AMISOM has been active there since 2007.

The country’s regional leaders chose to boycott a National Security Council meeting scheduled for Sept. 17 and 18.

In an apparent response to regional leaders, Somali PM Hassan Ali Khaire has rejected suggestions that Mogadishu isn’t safe for Somali leaders to meet.

However, Somali PM has also refused calls for “third-party” mediation as requested by the regional leaders.

UN says the decision by the five regional presidents could embolden Al Shabaab and negate the gains made by the African Union Mission in Somalia.

Caasimada Online
Mogadishu News Desk
Caasimada@live.com