The African Union (AU) has intensified calls for Somali leaders to prioritize dialogue amid escalating tensions between the federal government and South West State, warning of risks to national stability and humanitarian conditions. The conflict, rooted in constitutional amendments passed earlier this month, has deepened divisions over governance and electoral reforms.
Somalia's parliament approved changes on March 15, 2026, extending President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's term and transitioning to direct parliamentary elections—a shift from the clan-based system. South West State leader Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed (Laftagareen) rejected the amendments, citing a lack of regional consensus and federal overreach. Tensions worsened when Mogadishu declared Laftagareen's mandate expired and allegedly mobilized allied forces in the Bay region.
Following South West State's mid-March decision to cut ties with the federal government, clashes disrupted flights between Baidoa and Mogadishu, raising fears of broader conflict. AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf emphasized restraint, urging stakeholders to resolve differences through Somalia's National Consultative Council framework.
The AU reaffirmed support for Somalia's unity, stressing that negotiated solutions are critical to preserving progress in state-building and counterterrorism efforts. Observers warn prolonged discord could destabilize security gains made against groups like Al-Shabaab.
