MOGADISHU, Somalia – Accusations have surfaced against Egypt, suggesting opportunistic behavior as the country prepares to lead the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which will replace the current African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
Troop-contributing nations, chiefly Uganda, express discontent that Egypt’s engagement comes only now, questioning the motives behind their insistence on joining AUSSOM forces next year.
Somalia has outrightly dismissed Ethiopia’s involvement, citing concerns over Addis Ababa’s intentions that it perceives as a threat to its sovereignty. This wariness arises after Ethiopia and North Western State of Somalia, the self-governing region, penned an accord regarding Red Sea access, posing challenges to Somalia’s territorial claims.
Uganda, a significant player in keeping the peace in Somalia, is dubious of Egypt’s unexpected participation. They suggest this shift might provide an opening for Al-Shabaab to regain strength, advocating for an unaltered mission structure.
Uganda’s State Minister for International Affairs, Henry Okello Oryem, chimes in, saying, “There’s a question mark: why Egypt now? Their timing feels odd. They ought to have been on board sooner.” Uganda concedes minor operational tweaks might be inevitable yet opposes structural changes.
Egypt’s intention to dispatch 5,000 troops—half of AUSSOM’s entire assembly—worries countries like Ethiopia. Having contributed crucial forces since 2014, Ethiopia sees Egypt’s growing sway as a potential snag in regional dynamics already fraught with tension, according to The EastAfrican.
The European Union, primary benefactor of AU missions in Somalia, clarifies, “The EU isn’t backing any particular nation for the new mission, nor are we involved in selection. Our hope is solid focus on battling al-Shabaab.” They emphasize the need for participation without distractions.
On funding, the EU reiterates its commitment to equitable burden-sharing among global allies, standing firm as a key financier in Somalia’s quest for peace, ready to back AUSSOM faithfully.
AXADLETM
