The African Union has expressed deep concern over the heightened security situation in Mogadishu, particularly reports of armed clashes in civilian areas.
In a statement, the African Union called on all parties to the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and exercise full restraint to protect civilians and prevent any actions that could further escalate the crisis.
The African Union also urged all political stakeholders in Somalia to resolve their differences through dialogue and the country’s constitutional processes.
It encouraged the efforts of the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, and all political parties to promote national dialogue, reconciliation and consensus-building leading to political stability.
The African Union said it would closely monitor the situation, reaffirming that the African Union, through AUSSOM, stands ready to continue its support in restoring peace and security to Somalia.
The African Union’s statement comes at a time of international concern over the political and security tensions in Mogadishu, with several organizations and countries calling for peace to be maintained and political dialogue to be strengthened.
