Somalia calls for termination of UN mission

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The government of Somalia has written to the United Nations, calling for the termination of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM), which has been a critical component in the stabilization of the country.

In a letter done by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the country cited a “thorough consideration of our strategic priorities.” The Mission has been in place for over a decade and is credited for the progress made so far.

The government now says it will not seek renewal of the mandate of the mission, as the country seeks to stabilize. The government aims to push for independence from foreign assistance, including in the security sector.

“Somali Government will no longer request mandate renewal of resolution 2705 (2023),” the letter written by Foreign Minister Ahmed Fiqi addressed to the current president of the UN Security Council read.

“We believe that it is now appropriate to transition to the next phase of our partnership. We are confident that the achievements and lessons learned during the mission's presence will continue to guide our efforts towards sustaining peace and prosperity.”

UNSOM has been critical in assessing the situation in the country, including supporting the government to enhance stability in various departments. For years, the government has managed to effectively stabilize key sectors of the economy through support from the international community.

In the fight against Al-Shabaab, the government through the support of international partners, has also managed to flush the militants from strategic areas. The first phase left at least 3,000 militants dead and several others injured.

By the end of this year, Somalia is expecting full implementation of the Somali Transition Plan (STP). Under this process, members of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) are expected to leave as the local troops take over security responsibilities.

GAROWE ONLINE