In a twist, Somalia has called upon the United Nations to wind up its longstanding political mission in the country come October.
UNSOM, birthed in 2013 through a U.N. Security Council mandate, aimed to assist Somali authorities in transitioning towards democracy and the rule of law after two decades marred by clashes amongst militias, terrorist factions, and criminal bands.
Despite the monumental task ahead, President Mohammed Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is determined to steer Somalia away from its deep-seated chaos.
Addressing the Security Council, Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi stated, “We request the cessation of UNSOM’s mandate, considering our strategic directions,” emphasizing the mission’s past contributions.
Through his praise, Fiqi acknowledged, “The mission has been pivotal in fostering peace and progress in our land,” yet he asserted, “Now is the moment to evolve our collaboration.”
He expressed confidence in the insights and gains from UNSOM’s tenure guiding Somalia’s continuous quest for peace, noting, “The successes and teachings from this mission will steer our future endeavors.”
When last renewed in October, the Security Council urged UNSOM to “sustain and amplify its presence within Somalia,” reflecting “grave concern” over the prevailing humanitarian crisis.
It’s noteworthy that U.N. missions necessitate consent from their host nations. Recent times have witnessed a surge of opposition towards U.N. operations in Africa.
Countries like Mali have pushed U.N. contingents out – last year saw MINUSMA’s exit. Similarly, December marked the cessation of the political mission in Sudan upon local authorities’ plea.
