Somalia: presidential term extension upsets the international community
The President of Somalia, Mohamed Abdullhi Mohamed "Farmajo", November 26, 2018. Yasuyoshi CHIBA / AFP
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2 min
The head of state's mandate expired in early February.
For months, he has been negotiating with the opposition and the Somali federal regions, without reaching an agreement allowing the organization of elections.
On Monday, the lower house of parliament voted for a two-year extension of the presidential term, sparking an outcry within the international community.
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With our regional correspondent,
Sébastien Németh
The international community has radically changed its tone.
Antony Blinken announced that the United States will reassess its relationship with Somalia, including assistance and diplomatic engagement.
The US Secretary of State cites possible sanctions and visa restrictions.
The European High Representative for Foreign Affairs considered that he could not accept this extension in the absence of a political consensus.
Josep Borrel speaks of a "
serious threat to peace and stability
".
Without returning to dialogue, the European Union "will
examine other concrete measures
", he said.
Ditto for London which announces that without political consensus, the relationship with Mogadishu will be reassessed.
Fear of a period of instability
But these words did not make President Farmajo back down.
Tuesday, the head of state endorsed the
resolution of the lower house
, giving it the force of law.
He also ousted the Mogadishu police chief.
Brigadier General Sadik Omar, who wanted to block Monday's vote, had his rank and salary withdrawn.
After weeks spent in Mogadishu, the presidents of Puntland and Jubbaland left them, putting an end, de facto, to the dialogue.
And the shock wave has not finished being felt.
The Somali National Salvation Forum, which brings together several senior opposition officials, describes the resolution as illegal and has pledged measures to prevent its implementation.
Many now fear a serious period of instability or even a resumption of civil war.
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Somalia
Diplomacy
United States
Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo
European Union