The African Union Commission (AUC) has raised concern over reported security developments in Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu, following armed clashes in civilian-populated areas. It has called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to immediately halt hostilities.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Commission urged all sides involved in the violence to stop fighting at once, warning that continued confrontation risks further destabilising the capital and endangering civilians.
"The African Union Commission is deeply concerned by reported security developments in Mogadishu, including armed clashes in civilian areas. The Commission calls on all parties to immediately stop the fighting and exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, and refrain from actions that could further escalate tensions," the statement read.
The AUC also appealed to Somali political actors to resolve their differences through dialogue and established constitutional processes, stressing that peaceful engagement remains essential for national stability and progress in the country’s state-building efforts.
"The Commission encourages the continuation of the efforts of H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia and all political actors in promoting national dialogue, reconciliation and consensus-building towards political stability," said the AUC.
The statement comes amid rising political tensions in Somalia, where divisions between the federal government and opposition figures have intensified.
Reports from Mogadishu indicate increased deployment of security forces along key roads and public areas, with residents describing sporadic gunfire and movement restrictions in some neighbourhoods following overnight clashes.
The African Union Commission said it will continue to closely monitor developments and remains ready, through the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), to support efforts aimed at restoring calm and strengthening security institutions.
International partners, including regional and Western missions, have also called for restraint and renewed dialogue, warning that continued violence could undermine Somalia’s fragile gains in governance and security.
The AU reiterated its commitment to supporting Somali-led peacebuilding efforts and urged all stakeholders to prioritise national unity and the protection of civilians.
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