Somalia's President Critiques Ethiopia's AU Role Amid Tension Over Sea Access Deal

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has sharply criticized Ethiopia for what he perceives as a contradiction in hosting the African Union (AU) headquarters while allegedly violating AU principles through its dealings with Somaliland.

Speaking in Somalia's parliament on Saturday, Mohamud referenced a controversial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by Ethiopia with the autonomous region of Somaliland, which has stirred significant regional and international controversy.

Mohamud emphasized that Ethiopia cannot claim the moral high ground as the host of the AU while engaging in what Somalia views as territorial infringement. "Ethiopia cannot have it both ways," he stated, pointing out the inherent conflict between Ethiopia's role in the AU and its actions that, Somalia argues, undermine the AU's foundational principles of territorial integrity and sovereignty.

In response to Ethiopian claims that its military presence is critical for fighting al-Shabaab in Somalia, Mohamud dismissed these assertions. "We have liberated many parts of our country from Khawaarij without Ethiopia," he said, using a term for extremist groups, and highlighted that Ethiopian military support during recent operations in Somalia was minimal.

The Somali president also called for the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops from Somalia by December, a move that could significantly affect the security landscape in the region, given Ethiopia's longstanding military involvement under the AU's mandate. Despite this, Ethiopia has expressed its willingness to continue participating in AU-led military operations in Somalia.

This public feud has escalated tensions not only between Somalia and Ethiopia but also cast a shadow over the African Union, which is headquartered in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia's capital. Mohamud's statements underline a growing diplomatic rift that could have broader implications for the stability and cooperation within the Horn of Africa and the operational effectiveness of the AU in conflict resolution and peacekeeping efforts.

The MOU in question reportedly involves Ethiopia's recognition of Somaliland in exchange for sea access, a move fiercely opposed by Somalia which considers Somaliland part of its sovereign territory. This situation has not only strained bilateral relations but also poses a challenge to the AU's credibility and its commitment to the principles of non-interference and respect for existing borders.

The evolving situation will likely be closely monitored by the international community, with potential implications for regional security architecture and the diplomatic stance of Ethiopia within the African Union.

GAROWE ONLINE