AU Urges Somali Leaders to Resume Poll Talks, Condemns Presidential Term Extension

MOGADISHU, SOMALIA - Opposition leaders in Somalia welcomed a rare move by the African Union to condemn a term extension by Somali lawmakers for themselves and the president.

The AU Peace and Security Committee expressed "deep concern" over the vote by Somalia’s lower house of parliament this month to extend the mandate of President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo. The organization said the move, which effectively postponed the country's already-delayed elections, also undermines the unity and stability of the Horn of Africa state. Lawmakers extended Farmajo's mandate for another two years after months of failed talks on holding parliamentary and presidential elections. Political leaders were unable to agree on the electoral process, despite heavy pressure from the AU, the United States, and European Union.