By Magdalene Wanja - Reporter
Djibouti, June 04, 2026 - The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has raised alarm over rising unrest in Mogadishu, urging Somali leaders to step back from confrontation and embrace dialogue.
In a statement issued on June 4, 2026, from Djibouti, the regional bloc condemned recent violence and stressed that restraint and consensus remain the only viable paths forward.
IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu called for urgency in protecting Somalia’s fragile progress.
“Safeguarding Somalia’s unity, stability, and the gains made in rebuilding state institutions is absolutely critical. We call on all parties to put the Somali people first and resolve disputes through inclusive dialogue,” he said.
Somalia, a founding member of IGAD, is seen as a cornerstone of peace and security in the Horn of Africa. IGAD reaffirmed its solidarity with the nation, pledging to support initiatives that strengthen cohesion and prevent backsliding into instability.
Observers warn that renewed political friction threatens to undo fragile gains in governance and reconstruction, making regional cooperation essential to prevent Somalia from sliding deeper into crisis.
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The appeal comes against the backdrop of a volatile political climate as Somalia approaches its 2026 national elections. The federal government has championed a “one-person, one-vote” system, but opposition groups and regional administrations, particularly Puntland and Jubaland, argue the country is not ready due to security challenges, weak institutions, and unresolved constitutional disputes.
Tensions have already spilled into violent clashes, including confrontations between federal forces and Jubaland troops in Ras Kamboni.
Arrest warrants have been issued by both sides, with Mogadishu accusing Jubaland President Ahmed Madobe of treason, while Jubaland has targeted President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
International partners, including the European Union and UN agencies, have echoed IGAD’s call for restraint, warning that unilateral moves could trigger parallel political processes and deepen instability.
Analysts caution that without consensus, Somalia risks reversing the fragile state-building gains achieved over the past decade.