UN boss warns against violence in Somalia after Mogadishu clashes

NEW YORK - The United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed concerns about the recent violence that broke out in Mogadishu on Sunday over the decision by the Lower House to extend President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo's term.

Troops allied to the opposition and those loyal to Farmajo fought for the better of Sunday, with the latter claiming victory over the control of Mogadishu. The opposition team accused Farmajo of failing to give room for negotiations.

And in a tough-worded statement, Guterres asked all political actors in Somalia to refrain from acts of violence, adding that time has come for the stakeholders to consider dialogue as the best way to end the impasse.

He asked them to make compromises for the sake of stability in the country, arguing that the young fragile democracy should be protected by both sides regardless of their differing political opinions.

"The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the recent armed clashes in Mogadishu. He reiterates his call for all Somali stakeholders to refrain from further violence and resolve their differences through dialogue and compromise," said Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General

"The Secretary-General urges all Somali stakeholders to resume negotiations immediately and forge an agreement based on the 17 September Electoral Model and Baidoa proposals."

The Secretary-General sentiments rhyme with statements made by the European Union and the United Kingdom, who called for structured dialogue to avert violence. The two entities are major security and development stakeholders in Somalia.

Also, the United States through State Department issued a similar warning on Monday, arguing that both warring teams should embrace dialogue. The US further said it will punish those who may drag the reconciliation process in the Horn of Africa nation.

GAROWE ONLINE