ONLF Press Release: Disinformation about Abdikarin’s refoulement to TPLF-led Ethiopian regime by the Somali regime of Farmajo (02.09.2017)

UK’s United Nations Security Council Draft Resolution sets a certain tone to the new possible mandate of AMISOM!

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Member State of the United Kingdom (UK), wrote a draft resolution on the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) and the operation there. The draft resolution says a lot things. But what is important is the intent of the mission and the scope of it. As if, the United Nations and the donors of the funding will uphold its core and the security operations intact. If they will continue to feed the nations of peacekeepers or wishing for another fate. That is why a Draft Resolution from the UK are important.

Here is the key quotes from resolution:

Decides to authorize the Member States of the AU to maintain the deployment of AMISOM until 31 May 2018, and to reduce the level of uniformed AMISOM personnel to a maximum level of 21,626 by 31 December 2017, to include a minimum of 1,040 AMISOM police personnel including five Formed Police Units, with a further reduction of uniformed personnel to 20,626 by 30 October 2018, unless the Security Council decides to accelerate the pace of the reduction, taking into account the capabilities of the Somali security forces thus far” (UNSC, P: 3, 2017).

Decides to authorize AMISOM to pursue the following strategic objectives:

(a) Enable the gradual handing over of security responsibilities from AMISOM to the Somali security forces contingent on abilities of the Somali security forces and political and security progress in Somalia;

(b) Reduce the threat posed by Al Shabaab and other armed opposition groups;

(c) Assist the Somali security forces to provide security for the political process at all levels as well as stabilization, reconciliation and peacebuilding in Somalia” (UNSC, P: 3, 2017).

Requests the Secretary-General to conduct a comprehensive assessment of AMISOM by 15 April 2018, working closely with the African Union and the Federal Government of Somalia, to take stock of the transition thus far including the development of Somali security institutions, and to make recommendations on the progressive transition from AMISOM to Somali security responsibility including over the electoral period, taking into account the capacities of the Somali security forces” (UNSC, P: 5-6, 2017).

This is the newest draft resolution on the AMISOM, the previous one was made on the 27th May 2017. When the United Nations Security Council voted it to extended the mission until 31st August 2017. Now that is tomorrow. Therefore, the key statements from that is:

The Security Council today decided to authorize member States of the African Union to maintain the deployment of the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) until 31 August” (…) “The Council also decided that the Mission would maintain its current maximum deployment level of 22,126 uniformed personnel. It further authorized AMISOM to take all necessary measures in carrying out its mandate” (UNSC, 2017).

So the draft wants less deployment in Somalia, the UK draft says the AMISOM will cut by 1500 soldiers. This means brigades pulled back to their republics. That being Kenyan, Ugandan or Burundian troops sent home. The other important part of it is to make reductions and assess more thoroughly the mission. As the mission of peace-building and creating a stronger Somali National Army. That the Secretary General will work on a transition away from the AMISOM. This is another state than before, because the UNSC and AMISOM has been naturally extended without any core assessment of their mission. The peacekeeping mission has been important, but will a possible leaving the Somalian Federation open doors to an uncertainty of the security situation. Since the Somalian republic has been in dire straights since the fall of Said Barre in 1970s. The time for rebuilding and not civil-war is important. The AMISOM mission has not been able to stop that even, as the Al-Shabaab has had the ability to create havoc. Therefore, the battle-zones has shifted.

This draft sets the tone of what that could be possible mandate and willing of the United Nations to support. As the Member States and the Security Council votes for tomorrow. The uncertainty and the reports from the Secretary General. And wanting the AMISOM to give more power to the Somali National Army (SNA), this is powerful shift of will. This idea to engage more directly the transition and the government of Somalia. The SNA will get more training and less deployment of the peacekeepers to make sure they can be more independent. The AMISOM will continue its mandate to 31st May 2018.

We have to see what the United Nations Security Council votes and what resolution that will be put forward. Peace.

Reference:

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) – ‘United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland: draft resolution’ (25.08.2017)

United Nations Security Council (UNSC) – ‘Security Council Authorizes African Union to Maintain Mission’s Deployment in Somalia until 31 August, Unanimously Adopting Resolution 2355 (2017)’ (26.05.2017) link: https://www.un.org/press/en/2017/sc12843.doc.htm

Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs urges Somalia to continue reconciliation and State-building process (25.08.2016)

NEW YORK, United States of America, August 25, 2017 – The United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Jeffrey Feltman, visited Somalia from 24-25 August. During his visit, accompanied by the Secretary-General’s Special Representative, Michael Keating, he held discussions with the President of Somalia Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khayre, Speakers of both Houses of Parliament, the Minister for Constitutional Affairs, the Chair of the National Independent Electoral Commission, and Special Representative of the African Union Commission Chairperson.
“The political commitment of the Federal Government of Somalia to deliver results for all Somalis is impressive” said Mr. Feltman. “These include job creation, infrastructure, fighting corruption, strengthening civil service and improving security.” He urged the Somali Government to continue addressing issues critical to successful peacebuilding and state-building processes, including the advancement and conclusion of the constitutional review process, to advance federalism in the country. Preparations must begin now to lay the groundwork for elections based on universal suffrage in 2020/2021.

Mr. Feltman emphasized the importance of strengthening accountability mechanisms to address and prevent human rights violations. “We also urge the Government of Somalia to ensure dialogue and meaningful participation of women, youth and minorities in the political and reconciliation processes,” he said.

Commending the efforts of the African Union Mission to Somalia (AMISOM) and the Somali security forces in the fight against Al-Shabaab, Mr. Feltman emphasized the need to intensify efforts to develop increasingly capable Somali security forces. This will play a key role in facilitating the transition of security responsibilities from AMISOM to the Somalis, and in achieving long-term security. “The fundamental importance of the African Union support, and the role that AMISOM plays in peace-building in Somalia cannot be overstated,” Mr. Feltman stated.

The Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs reaffirmed the support of the United Nations to the Federal Government, along with key international partners, in implementing a viable National Security structure and a comprehensive approach to security that includes countering violent extremism and improving local governance.

Somalia: Bancroft Statement on the Operation in Bariire (25.08.2017)

Correction – Somali National Army conducted security operation near Bariire (25.08.2017)

Somali National Army conducted security operation near Bariire (25.08.2017)

AMISOM: UPDF Update on Ambush on own Troops of Battle Group XX in Somalia (31.07.2017)

Somali Special Forces Strike Destroys Alshabab Training Base in Middle Juba (12.06.2017)

MOGADISHU, Somalia, June 12, 2017 -President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo’s statement on the dawn strike on Alshabab training base near Sakow.

“Earlier today, I authorized our special forces with the support of our international partners to conduct a strike against an al-Shabaab training camp near Sakow, Middle Juba region. This was a successful strike which destroyed a key al-Shabaab command and supply hub. This will ultimately disrupt the enemy’s ability to conduct new attacks within Somalia.”

“I said when I took office that security will be top priority for my administration. This strike will enhance security and reduce the threats of Alshabab.”

“We have long suffered at the hands of Alshabab which is supported by global terror networks. We and our international partners will take every possible precaution to protect our civilian population from harm during these operations while targeting terrorists.”

“All of us know somebody from our youth, our village, our families, who has been killed or injured by the senseless violence of al-Shabaab. I have personally met the families and the victims of several Alshabab attacks. For those who have suffered under al-Shabaab, and for the rest of Somalia, I want you to know that we are committed to defeating al-Shabaab and uniting our people.”

“To the members of al-Shabaab, I tell you that we are bringing the fight to you. If you, however take advantage of my amnesty offer and denounce violence, we will integrate you into our reform program. You have no future with the terrorists, but you can still be a part of Somalia’s future; a peaceful and prosperous future.”

President Farmaajo: “We will pursue them, and we will defeat Alshabab terrorists” (09.06.2017)

The president has termed the fallen soldiers as the true martyrs, as they died protecting their people and their country.

MOGADISHU, Somalia, June 9, 2017 – President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has sent his condolences to the families and the people of Puntland following today’s ambush on a military camp in Af-Urur, near Galgala Mountains.

The president has termed the fallen soldiers as the true martyrs, as they died protecting their people and their country.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of a number of our gallant soldiers in today’s attack in Af-Urur, Puntland. They fought hard and bravely for their country, to keep their people safe during this holy month of Ramadan. We will forever remember them, they are the real martyrs.”

The president assured the citizenry that his administration would not show mercy in dealing with Alshabab terrorists who have no regard for the sanctity of life and the holy month of Ramadan.

This once again proves that the enemy we are facing is dangerous, is bent on causing harm to the peace loving people of this country and must be fought with by all means. We must show no mercy in dealing with Alshabab.”

President Farmaajo promised Alshabab would be pursued and would pay for today’s attack.

“We promise that Alshabab won’t get away with this. As of now, our troops are in hot pursuit of the enemy; they will pay for today’s attack. I am confident our forces would defeat this abhorrent enemy.”

President Farmaajo spoke on the phone with the president of Puntland and assured him that the Federal Government would stand by the administration and people of the region.

My honest letter to the newfound peacemaker President Museveni!

Dear Sir, His Excellency (H.E.) President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni!

Though I am surely not so dear to you, I am sure if you we’re ever to read one of my pieces. I would end up in Luzira or even Nalufenya, in a dungeon not seeing daylight before my mind was weaken and my thirst for liberty and justice was all over. That is what would be my ending, if you got your will. As many others who has questioned your rule and your power. They have lost their days and their lives, they have been detained and been tortured. This is something you know and done your orders. That is well-known.

So the last week has boggled me, how you at the time taking the Chairmanship of the East African Community, which goes between the Member States. Therefore, your place there after the Tanzanian President Joseph Pombe Magufuli isn’t shocking. What is more important, is the stages of your concern of the nations around you. How you suddenly want to invest your time and urges to change and give hope the republic’s around you.

That you travel on credit to London to talk on AMISOM and possible peace in Somalia, than later you travel to Tanzania and discuss the sanctions and say the EAC should be able to solve what is in-house, and today you are in South Sudan, giving advice on National Dialogue there. You are certainly occupied with other nations troubles.

In London, United Kingdom on the 12th May you said: “However, our strongly held view is that it is not enough to check Al-Shabaab. Somalia must heal completely and stand on its own feet. In our view, there are a number of bottlenecks that stop the complete healing of Somalia” (Museveni, 12.05.2017). In Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania on the 20th May you said: “Burundi is our member and no action should be taken against it without our input. Our house is our house” (Museveni, 20.05.2017). Today in Juba, South Sudan you said: “Within the party, speak frankly to each other. Reach decisions by voting or consensus. Raise issues by having regular meetings in the party. Insist on having meetings in party organs. Never use force. Violence should be a means of last resort” (Museveni, 22.05.2017).

That you suddenly are the grand peacemaker is weird, the man who done his thing civil-war and coup d’etat in Uganda, you have been involved in two wars inside the Democratic Republic of Congo, you ushered the rebellion and ruling party of Rwanda Patriotic Front/Army in Rwanda. You have sent your army without mandate into South Sudan. The other mandated forces has been operations against Lord Resistance Army in Central African Republic and the African Union Peacekeeping Mission in Somalia (AMISOM). Also, being hired security agents without consent of parliament in the Equatorial Guinea. I am sure you have used them differently, like lately the UPDF helping mission for the SPLA in Bieh State in South Sudan in April 2017. So the use of army for your own gain and the foreign exchange is also well-known.

Therefore, that you suddenly speaks of peace, negotiations and of consensus, it must be a lingo you dislike. As you yourself want to get rid of opposition in Uganda and want only the one who agree with you. Therefore, that you advice President Salva Kiir Mayardit to talk consensus, while in Buyengo Sub-County on the 9th May you said: “I am tired of wars. I want you to vote for pro-NRM members of parliament like our party flag-bearer, Mr Moses Walyomu.” (…) “I don’t want to go back to the bush to fight again. Don’t send me people who will disagree with me in parliament. I fought in 1986 and I am tired.”(Kirunda, Nakato & Katabulawo, 2017). So it is not like you believe the words you said in Juba today, aye? It seems more like a ploy and pigment of imagination, since you need to say this to look wise for the world. But we know that this isn’t the real you, you don’t believe in consensus, you believe in your vision and doesn’t trust anyone else, but yourself.

That you speak of violence as last resort, what about all the tear-gas as the opposition? What about all the harassment of them? What about all the ones detained for their political affiliation? Than, I also have to ask, why did all of the innocent had to die in violence in November 2016 in Kasese? There are so many questions, you should also answer for detaining all the kids of suspects in the killing of AIGP Andrew Kaweesi? If you doesn’t want to resolve with violence, why is the Flying Squad and the UPDF so quick to spread fear every-time there is ballots and elections. Why did you send the fighter airplanes to fly over Kampala on the days after the Presidential Election in 2016? I ask these questions since you tell people not to use violence, but speaking frankly; which I am doing to you now.

So with your history of violence, your love of guns and militarized government. I have little or to be honest. No faith in your mediation. Mr. President you have no character of trying to make peace. You have only made war and stifled your opposition. Therefore, very few of your adversaries are still alive. Most of them is gone, as well as the UNLA mates are gone and others who has stood in you way.

President Museveni, a leader and Commander-in-Chief since 1986, what sort of history and guidance can you bring from you experience and reasoning inside the Ugandan Republic, to build bridges in Burundi and South Sudan? Other than, bring the Special Forces Command and blow the possible enemies to pieces, Mr. President is that avoiding violence? Or throw tear-gas at consultation meetings of Opposition parties, is that mediation and consensus, Mr. President?

I am just asking because this is your advice… your own advice to the fellow brother in South Sudan, Somalia and in Burundi. Kinda hard to follow where you reside and run the nation, aye?

With

Best Regards

The Writer of MinBane!

Reference:

Kirunda, Abubaker; Nakato, Tausi & Katabulawo, Andrew – ‘I don’t want opposition in parliament, says President Museveni’ (09.05.2017) link: http://www.monitor.co.ug/News/National/I-don-t-want-opposition-in-parliament–says-President-Museveni/688334-3919496-71atniz/index.html