(24-04-23) MOGADISHU – The federal government of Somalia, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has refuted claims that it is seeking an extension for the African Union’s Transitional Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) operations. In a statement, National Security Adviser Hussein Sheikh Ali emphasized that there are no plans for the government to prolong ATMIS operations in the country.
Hussein took to Twitter to dispel the rumours, stating that the previously announced departure plan for ATMIS remains unchanged, with a scheduled withdrawal from Somalia on December 31, 2024. He cited United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Resolutions 2628 and 2670 as the basis for the government’s commitment to handing over security responsibility to ATMIS by the end of 2024.
The East African newspaper published a report suggesting on Sunday that the Somali government was seeking a two-year extension for ATMIS operations. The paper claimed that President Hassan Sheikh was spearheading this effort with the support of regional leaders and that it aligned with a proposal from countries providing forces for the mission.
In response to the article, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Somalia also issued a denial. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ali Mohamed Omar, reiterated the nation’s dedication to implementing UNSC resolutions 2628 and 2670 by December 31, 2024 and focusing on the ATMIS transition.
The UN Security Council approved the establishment of ATMIS a year ago, with the aim of supporting Somalia until its forces can assume full responsibility for national security by the end of 2024. As the deadline approaches, the Somali government remains firm in its commitment to meeting the established timetable and transitioning security responsibilities as planned.
Authored by Hanad Mohamed
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