Mogadishu (SD) – US Secretary of State Antony Blinken says the United States is “deeply disappointed” by the federal government’s decision to extend the term of the president and parliament by two years.

“The United States is deeply disappointed by the Federal Government of Somalia’s decision to approve a legislative bill that extends the mandates of the president and parliament by two years Implementation of this bill will pose serious obstacles to dialogue and further undermine peace and security in Somalia. It will compel the United States to re-evaluate our bilateral relations with the Federal Government of Somalia, to include diplomatic engagement and assistance, and to consider all available tools, including sanctions and visa restrictions, to respond to efforts to undermine peace and stability. ” said an statement from US.

The UK Government has announced that it is working with the international community on a joint plan regarding Somalia following the extension of the mandate of Parliament and Farmajo.

UK Minister for Africa James Duddridge said he UK is “dismayed” by the decision by the Somali Parliament to extend Farmajo’s term by two years.

“We are dismayed by the decision of the Lower House of the Somali Parliament to extend the mandates of Mohamed Farmajo as President and of the Somali Parliament by two years. This is not a solution to the ongoing impasse on the electoral process, but instead a move that undermines the credibility of Somalia’s leadership and risks the safety and future of the Somali people.” Said the UK statement.

Adding “In the absence of consensus leading to inclusive and credible elections being held without further delay, the international community’s relationship with Somalia’s leadership will change. The UK will work with its international partners on a common approach to re-evaluate our relationship and the nature of our assistance to Somalia.”.

A statement from the European Union (EU) said that the extension of the mandate of the outgoing parliament would undermine the efforts of the European Union (EU) and the international community to rebuild Somalia through consensus.

“The international community, including the EU, have repeatedly and publicly expressed that we could under no circumstances accept an extension of the government mandate, or any partial or parallel process related to the elections, without the agreement of the parties to the 17 September electoral agreement. The European Union believes that the passage and signing of this resolution will divide Somalia, impose additional delays and constitute a grave threat to the peace and stability of Somalia and its neighbours. It certainly does not serve the interests of the people of Somalia.” The EU statement said.

The statements from countries that support Somalia’s state building efforts such as the US, EU and UK comes as President Farmajo penned a two-term extension announced by parliament yesterday.