US warns over Somalia violence, issues travel advisory

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The US State Department has warned against violence in Somalia's capital Mogadishu following a gunfight which was triggered by the current political stalemate, precipitating outgoing President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo's decision to approve term extension.

The president, whose term expired on Feb 8, approved the Lower House resolution of extending his term for two more years, a move that has triggered wrangles within the capital, which hosts all arms of government, including the official residences of the president.

Two factions engaged in a fistfight for the control of the capital, with the army team leaning towards the opposition claiming control of most parts of Mogadishu. FGS denies claims that a group of the army had left their bases in Middle Shabelle to oppose the government.

And in a swift response, the US through State Department has expressed concerns following the violence in Mogadishu, adding that only dialogue will resolve the current problems facing the Horn of Africa nation.

"The United States is gravely concerned by the violent clashes yesterday in Mogadishu. We call on all parties to exercise restraint and to resolve their differences peacefully," State Department said. "Dialogue and consensus are the only ways to resolve the electoral impasse, and we urge parties to resume negotiations at once to arrive at an agreed way forward for immediate elections."

"As the Secretary has stated previously, the United States is prepared to consider all available tools, including sanctions and visa restrictions, to respond to efforts to undermine peace and stability in Somalia," added Ned Price, the official spokesperson of the Department.

Calmness was restored in most parts of Mogadishu on Monday as most people either remained home or went about their businesses. However, the presence of military from both sides remains visible but the pro-opposition forces are said to be in control.

Even as the country struggles with the latest setback, the US has elsewhere issued a travel advisory, noting several incidents of insecurity in the capital. All US citizens have been asked to be extremely cautious for the sake of their safety.

"The Department of State has issued a Level 4 Travel Advisory for Somalia and advises U.S. citizens not to travel to Somalia due to COVID-19, crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health issues, kidnapping, and piracy," the US embassy in Somalia said.

"The U.S. government has extremely limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Somalia due to the lack of a permanent consular presence in Somalia."

GAROWE ONLINE