MOGADISHU (SD) – Somalia’s international partners have called on Somali president Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and Prime minister, Mohamed Hussein Roble to shun political discord which may jeopardize the gains made in the country.

In a statement, the international community has expressed concern that the core issues have not been resolved, despite over two weeks of mediation efforts.

“Somalia’s international partners note that President Mohamed Abdullahi “Farmajo” and Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble continue to engage in mediated efforts to resolve the differences expressed in their exchange of statements on 16 September 2021,” the statement reads in part. 

The partners underscored the need to avoid further delay of elections, saying the ongoing political uncertainty has increased the risk of further delays to the electoral process.

“International partners urge the President and Prime Minister to reach an agreement as soon as possible, to maintain focus on the implementation of the 17 September 2020 and 27 May 2021 electoral agreements and to ensure that key security institutions (MoIS and NISA) are headed by able and respected leaders, especially during the electoral period,” the statement said. “And led to confusion over the leadership of the Ministry of Internal Security (MoIS) and National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), whose effectiveness is vital to combating Al-Shabaab and maintaining the security situation in the country.” 

The rift between Farmaajo and Roble has been boiling since last month after the leaders agreed over the dismissal of NISA director, Fahad Yasin and the country’s internal security minister, Hassan Hundhubey.

Somalia is currently holding elections for its Upper House and is preparing for elections for its Lower House.