UNSC briefing on UNSOM [Somalia]

[Tuesday, 15 February 2022; 1000 hrs EST]

Thank You Madame President,

I join others in thanking SRSR James Swan for his briefing. I also thank Special Representative of Chairman of AU Commission & Head of AMISOM Ambassador Francisco Madeira and Ambassador Olaf Skoof, Head of Delegation of EU for their respective updates.

2. The implementation of the electoral process in Somalia has been unable to meet the deadlines for more than a year now. The reporting period, regrettably, has also witnessed political tensions slowing down the electoral process. While there may be genuine logistical and administrative challenges, the biggest impediment has been acute political differences among the stakeholders within Somalia. We agree with the Secretary General that Somali leaders should rise above their political differences and work together to complete the electoral process credibly and swiftly on the basis of the 17 September 2020 and 27 May 2021 electoral agreements. We appreciate the proactive and pragmatic approach of SRSG and his team in the ongoing efforts to complete the electoral process.

3. In the coming weeks, the Somali authorities need to complete the elections to the House of the People by 25 February in line with the Communique of the National Consultative Council. We recognize the efforts that have been made since last month in this direction. Smooth coordination between constitutional authorities remains a key factor for concluding the electoral process culminating in the Presidential elections. The failure to meet upcoming deadlines will only strengthen the hands of adversaries of democracy in Somalia, such as the terror group Al Shabab.

4. As highlighted in Secretary General’s report, the activities of Al Shabab have increased by 17 percent in 2021. The frequency of its suicide operations has also intensified. This year itself, Al Shabab has carried out five attacks, including four in Mogadishu, killing scores of people and injuring many. Ambassador Madeira spoke at length about the grave nature of Al Shahab threat. We unequivocally condemn these terrorist attacks and express condolences to the families of the victims. Terrorism is not just a threat to Somalia, but to the whole world. Preventing terror outfits from accessing financial resources is crucial. Equally important is to recognize and address linkages between terrorism and transnational organized crime.

5. In this context, we need to recognize that the fight against terrorism in Somalia cannot sustain without AMISOM. The contribution of AMISOM to security and stability is immense. I would like to recall that India has contributed to US$ 1 million to AMISOM Trust Fund last year. The support of the international community to Somalia and AU efforts will be important to ensure that the gains made by AMISOM are not reversed. We reiterate the importance of predictable and sustainable funding for AMISOM.

6. A stable security transition in Somalia demands firm leadership and collaboration of the Somali government and the African Union. Reconfiguration of AMISOM is also required, to address the security challenges. We look forward to joint proposal on Somalia Transition Plan (STP) to be submitted in the next few weeks.

7. The humanitarian situation in Somalia continues to be a matter of concern. The difficult humanitarian situation calls for enhanced support of the international community to the 2022 Humanitarian Response Plan.

8. In conclusion, Madame President, the people of Somalia have the unique honor of being Africa’s first democrats. The current electoral process provides an opportunity to revive that legacy. India will continue to support Somalia and its people in their collective desire for a stable, secure, and peaceful future.

I thank you.

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