By Dawan Africa - -
As Somalia navigates one of its most delicate political moments in recent years, the United States has delivered one of its clearest public messages yet: political disputes must not descend into violence. In this exclusive interview with Dawan Africa, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires to Somalia Justin Davis says Washington is encouraging dialogue between the Federal Government and opposition leaders while stressing that Somalia’s future ultimately “is in the hands of the Somali people and its leaders.”
Speaking to Dawan Africa Political Editor Zamzam Daqarre and Editorial Director Ali Halane, Davis discusses the ongoing political tensions, the debate over Somalia’s electoral process, and Washington’s broader strategic interests in the country. He warns that violence against peaceful protesters is “never acceptable,” underscores the importance of compromise between political actors, and outlines how instability could affect both Somalia and international partnerships.
The interview also offers insight into evolving U.S. policy toward Africa under what Davis describes as a framework of “mutually beneficial partnerships,” while reaffirming continued American priorities in counterterrorism, governance, economic cooperation, and regional stability.
Full Interview Script
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Dawan Africa: Are you involved in the talks between the Government and the Somali Future Council?
Justin Davis: We have been talking to both sides for some time now to better understand the situation. We would welcome an opportunity to observe talks between the FGS and the political opposition, but the United States is neither hosting nor leading mediations. The future of Somalia is in the hands of the Somali people and its leaders.
We support peaceful resolution of political disputes and urge sides to be open to dialogue and compromise. International actors will not resolve this issue.
The international community looks forward to seeing progress in the talks this week between the FGS and the political opposition. It is imperative that Somalis see their leaders doing everything they can to move the country forward.
The question is whether leaders will give Somalis a fighting chance or just a fight. This country has been through some very difficult fights. Peace, opportunity, and prosperity should win the next battles.
I have seen spoilers called out by the Somali community if actors are not working in their best interest.
Dawan Africa: What is the U.S. position on the current Somali political situation?
Justin Davis: Our position has not changed: The Somali people should choose their own leaders, and the specific process and timelines of elections are up to them.
As the State Department’s Senior Bureau Official for African Affairs, Nick Checker said, the United States is resetting its relationships with countries on the African continent based on mutually beneficial partnerships. So, we are not going to direct Somalis how they should elect their leaders. However, no one wishes that political disputes turn violent. That would be bad for Somalia, and detrimental to U.S. presence and advancing U.S. interests here. There could be negative impacts for all sides if conditions deteriorate.
Having a peaceful opposition is a healthy sign in any society. It means there is ample space for all voices. Violence against peaceful protestors is never acceptable.
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Dawan Africa: What messages have you been delivering to the Government and opposition leaders?
Justin Davis: We have urged both sides to talk and find compromise. No one expects any side to emerge from talks with everything they want. Compromise requires communication.
The way Somalis hold elections is up to Somalis. I think both sides agree that some form of direct elections is inevitable. So, the dispute centers on how, on what timeline, and under whose leadership direct elections are instituted. What’s also important is that there is a timely and practical electoral process followed by a peaceful transfer of power.
There are disagreements about property disputes, electoral timelines, the relationship between the federal and member state governments, among other issues. Good faith dialogue, without resorting to threats or violence, is the best way to resolve these disagreements and help the country move forward.
Somalia can then focus on the challenges it faces, including lasting security so the country can defeat terrorist groups, fighting corruption, strengthening the economy, attracting foreign investment, and improving quality of life for all Somalis.
Dawan Africa: What are U.S. strategic goals in Somalia?
Justin Davis: We are focused on countering terrorism and promoting security to ensure Somalia does not become a safe haven for people who wish to harm the United States or its interests.
We are also focused on advancing cooperation with the federal government, federal member state leaders, and civil society to advance U.S. objectives related to immigration, law enforcement, dismantling terrorist finance networks, and promoting safe opportunities for U.S. business interests, among other topics.
However, there must be a peaceful and stable environment conducive to international partners’ ability to advance these objectives.
Still, I’ll note that we have a longstanding travel advisory urging American citizens not to travel to Somalia at this time.