Somalia-Burundi Rift Over AUSSOM Troop Numbers Threatens Mission Stability

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Diplomatic sources have exposed a brewing rift between Somalia and Burundi officials of disrespect, in what could significantly affect the ongoing transition of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) troops, who are set to be incorporated into the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).

According to diplomatic sources who spoke with the Voice of America, Burundi wants the allocation of more troops serving in the AUSSOM, arguing that the 1041 allocated to them is insufficient and thus, would expose its soldiers fighting Al-Shabaab.

Burundi wants to contribute at least 2000 soldiers, according to diplomats, a move they say would boost the operational safety of its soldiers who have been serving in the Horn of Africa nation for the last decade.

A letter dated Dec 26 written by the Defense minister of Somalia Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, refers to the “non-BNDF [Burundi National Defense Forces] participation in AUSSOM.” Nur cites a lack of consensus about “the allocation of numbers” to BNDF for the “nonparticipation.”

According to VOA, a Burundian diplomat confirmed the differences in the troops' numbers. They accuse Somalia of being ungrateful despite the sacrifice the East African nation has made for the last few months.

“The Somali officials disrespected us by allocating numbers that would’ve exposed our soldiers. Ungrateful can’t capture enough the sentiments of Burundians towards Somalis. Well done!” the official told VOA.

“Unless something changes between now and 31st December we will go home. We are not dying to stay. We were disrespected and deserve an apology” the Burundian diplomat added.

Also uncertain is the role of Ethiopian troops in the new AU mission. Ethiopian officials said they are ready to participate in the post-ATMIS mission, but Some Somali officials have doubted it while others insist no final decision has been made.

But Ethiopia has already vowed to take part in the mission, accusing 'outsiders' of crippling the day-to-day operations within Somalia. Egypt has lately courted Somalia to the detriment of Ethiopia, which has traditionally supported the peacekeeping mission in Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE