On Monday, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, officially welcomed Dr. Abdiweli Mohamed Ali Gaas, who has been appointed as the Special Representative of the African Union and Head of the African Union Mission in South Sudan.
Dr. Gaas, a Somali politician and academic, previously served as Prime Minister of Somalia from June 2011 to October 2012. During his tenure, he played a prominent role in the political process that concluded the country’s transitional period, establishing the “Roadmap to the End of Transition”, which laid the foundation for Somalia’s democratic institutions.
After stepping down as Prime Minister, Dr. Gaas briefly served as a member of the new Federal Parliament, before being elected President of the Puntland State, a position he held for five years.
His appointment comes at a time when South Sudan is still struggling with political and security challenges, as the African Union seeks to strengthen its role in mediation, peacebuilding, and state development.
Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said that the appointment of Dr. Gaas is an important step in strengthening the African Union’s efforts in South Sudan, expressing full confidence in Dr. Gaas’s competence and experience in regional political and diplomatic affairs.
Dr. Abdiweli Gaas has also pledged to work towards a lasting solution to the political conflicts in South Sudan, and to work with the African Union for lasting peace and stability.
His appointment has been widely welcomed, with expectations that he will play a key role in the peace process in South Sudan.
