United Nations News Centre - UN envoy appeals for end to clan-based fighting in Somalia’s Lower Shabelle region
The top United Nations envoy to Somalia today appealed to an end to clan-based hostilities in the Lower Shabelle region which have resulted in a number of casualties in recent days.
“All parties must refrain from violent actions, make immediate efforts to de-escalate the situation and resolve their differences through peaceful dialogue and compromise,” said Nicholas Kay, the Secretary-General’s Special Representative and head of the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM).
“I welcome the efforts of the Prime Minister, Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed, to diffuse tensions and restore stability. I call on the parties to respect the Prime Minister’s call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and to cooperate fully with the ministerial delegation being sent to the area,” he stated in a news release.
“The Somali people have suffered enough and know that no good can come from further violence and insecurity. We stand ready to support mediation efforts,” he added.
According to media reports, the clashes affected hundreds of residents and farmers in areas newly liberated in recent months from the insurgent group Al-Shabaab by the Somali National Army backed by the African Union Mission in Somali (AMISOM).
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