As Al-Shabab Attacks rise, Somalia asks the UN to Terminate its Political Mission.

Somalia has formally asked the UN to end its political mission in the nation, citing strategic needs in light of the ongoing attacks by the extremist group al-Shabab, which is affiliated with al-Qaida.

Somali Foreign Minister Ahmed Moalim Fiqi announced the government’s decision in a letter to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the Security Council that came about as a result of careful analysis of their strategic goals. Fiqi has called for quick procedures to end the mission by October 31st, which is the deadline for the mission’s current mandate, known as UNSOM. With a mandate that includes strategic policy advice, promotion of gender equality and human rights, and support for peace and reconciliation efforts, the mission has been instrumental in working with African Union peacekeepers.

Fiqi expressed appreciation for UNSOM’s role in fostering peace and stability in Somalia while acknowledging its contribution. He underlined that the government is dedicated to moving forward with the UN partnership and concentrating on long-term development priorities.

Fiqi confirmed in a follow-up letter dated May 9th that the government is prepared to begin the planning process for changing from a political mission to a UN country team, which usually concentrates on development matters. Fiqi emphasised that this shift needed to be carefully thought out and started right away.