The United Nations Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS) has strongly condemned the fighting in Mogadishu, calling on all parties to the political crisis to show responsible leadership, cease hostilities and refrain from any action that could endanger civilian lives.
In a statement, UNTMIS said that a lasting solution can only be achieved through dialogue and political consensus, urging Somali leaders to return to the negotiating table to preserve stability in the country.
The United Nations and international partners also reiterated their previous calls for political disputes to be resolved peacefully and for steps that could undermine the democratic process and elections to be avoided.
The statement comes as heavy fighting has broken out in parts of Mogadishu between government forces and pro-opposition forces, with civilians in some areas fleeing their homes due to the exchange of gunfire and artillery fire.
UNTMIS said that Somalia’s international partners are ready to facilitate efforts to reach a political agreement and inclusive dialogue to reduce the current crisis.
