The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, has expressed deep concern over recent developments in South West State of the Federal Republic of Somalia, urging all parties to pursue peaceful resolution of differences.

In a statement issued on Sunday, March 29, H.E. Youssouf highlighted the National Consultative Council as a key platform for inclusive dialogue and consensus-building.

He encouraged Somali stakeholders to make constructive use of this framework to address disputes and resolve differences through dialogue rather than confrontation.

The Chairperson emphasised the importance of unity and cooperation between the Federal Government and Federal Member States, stressing that disagreements should be settled through negotiation.

"Underscoring that differences between the Federal Government and Federal Member States should be addressed through dialogue and emphasising the importance of unity and cooperation."

He expressed particular concern over rising tensions and their potential impact on Somalia’s stability, security, unity, and humanitarian situation.

"Expressing concern over rising tensions and their potential impact on Somalia’s stability, security, unity, and humanitarian situation, the Chairperson calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could lead to escalation," the statement continued.

H.E. Youssouf called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and avoid actions that could escalate the situation further.

The African Union reaffirmed its full support for Somalia’s peace, stability, and state-building efforts, and reiterated its readiness to assist in dialogue and reconciliation processes.

"The African Union reaffirms its full support for Somalia’s peace, stability, and state-building efforts, and stands ready to support dialogue and reconciliation," the statement concluded.