Somalia faces grave security risks - minister

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The stay of ambassador Francisco Madeira as a special representative to Somalia may have come to an abrupt end following sharp divisions within the government, but this could work negatively against his presence in the Horn of Africa nation.

Already, Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble and outgoing President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo seem to have fallen out over the AU representative’s extended deployment, with the PM declaring the Mozambique-born envoy persona non grata, and subsequently, ordering his expulsion.

State media reports Security minister Abdullahi Nor has asked the immigration department to immediately cancel Madeira's gratis visa, noting that he is no longer welcome in Somalia. Madeira has been working in the country since 2015.

"The Minister of Interior Security Abdullahi Mohamed Nor has instructed Immigration Authority to cancel permanently the work permit visa of Amb. Francisco Madeira who was recently declared persona non grata by Somali Government," state media reported.

In a Twitter Space conversation with Garowe Online, Nor insisted the government does not have issues with African Union Mission Forces in Somalia, adding that the main problem lies with a civilian component that Madeira heads.

"The FGS has an effective working relationship with AMISOM military component and we laud their unwavering support," Nor said, adding that the mission's civilian component is compromised and no longer works within the country.

AMISOM has already transitioned to African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS] but analysts argue that it was just a change of name. The mission has close to 20,000 soldiers in the country and has been operating in the country for over 15 years.

Nor further claimed the civilian component under Madeira is determined to assist Farmaajo to remain in power, adding that such schemes could plunge the country into chaos. The moves, he noted, could incite members of the public.

"The renewed impasse is driven by Farmaajo's blatant attempt to illegally stay in Villa Somalia or plunge the country into mayhem. He's currently inciting civil resistance against AMISOM," he added during the discussion.

Somalia opposition leaders have since urged Moussa Faki to withdraw his statement defending Madeira and recognize the persona non grata issued by PM Mohamed Roble. The leaders accused Madeira of “blatant interference in Somalia’s internal affairs, including partisanship.”

Farmaajo and the AU commission have since strongly defended Madeira, arguing that he has been executing his duties in line with the law. The envoy is yet to publicly comment on his current troubles in the country, which is embroiled in a political tussle.

Later this month, Somalia is expected to hold presidential elections for president, immediately after legislators have taken the oath and appointed their speakers. Farmaajo is challenged by former Presidents Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and Hassan Sheikh Mohamud among others.

GAROWE ONLINE