AU ready to facilitate dialogue between Somali parties to end political impasse

 

The African Union Peace and Security Council has on Thursday affirmed the readiness of the AU Commission to facilitate constructive dialogue between the Somali parties to overcome the current political impasse.

African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Ambassador Bankole Adeoye underlined the imperative for an inclusive political dialogue towards peace and stability in the country.

The Council has called on all stakeholders in Somalia to prioritize inclusive dialogue and political consensus towards peace and stability.

Somali President earlier welcomed the AU to mediate the poll crisis in the country.

“With regards to Somalia’s efforts to hold peaceful, inclusive and timely elections, my government welcomes the role of the AU in facilitating a Somali-led and Somali-owned engagement process that would lead to dialogue.” He said.

Somalia’s parliament voted on April 12 to extend the mandate of the president by two years, to let the Horn of Africa nation prepare for direct elections.