Ethiopia Scoffs at Somalia’s Rebel Support Threat, Calling It ‘Absurd,’ Escalating Strain
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – Ethiopia’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the African Union, Nebiyu Tedla, has fired back at Somalia’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, over his cautionary remarks about aiding Ethiopian rebels. In a blunt post on X, Nebiyu labeled the claims as "absurd" and accused Fiqi of sidelining national progress for clan agendas.
"It’s laughable to see Al-Shabaab sympathizers masquerading as officials, struggling to operate outside Banaadir, spewing hollow nationalism rooted in narrow clan politics," Nebiyu posted. "Such maneuvers will dismantle years of advancement and drag Somalia into turmoil."
This friction traces back to Ethiopia’s pact with Somaliland, granting Ethiopia maritime access in exchange for recognizing North Western of Somaliaas sovereign, a deal Somalia perceives as encroaching on its own territory. Fiqi hinted at possible alliances with Ethiopian rebels if the agreement with North Western of Somaliaholds.
Speaking on Universal TV on September 12, Fiqi remarked, "We’re considering establishing contact with armed factions in Ethiopia opposing the regime if this agreement continues. Though we haven’t reached that point, diplomacy is our preference, but support for rebels remains an option."
Nebiyu’s retort not only amplifies diplomatic unease between Ethiopia and Somalia but also punctuates the intricate weave of clan politics and national sovereignty in the region. Utilizing social media to openly critique a foreign minister’s stance signifies a serious uptick in public exchanges between the nations.
This spat unfolds amidst the Horn of Africa’s existing strife and volatility, with Ethiopia’s role in the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia adding yet another layer to the convoluted geopolitical landscape.
AXADLETM
