Somalia: ATMIS Denies Role in Jubaland Election, Calls for Peaceful Resolution of Dispute

Mogadishu (Idil News)  The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) has refuted claims circulating in Somali media that its police component is involved in organizing the upcoming elections in Jubaland State. 

In a press statement issued on Thursday, ATMIS emphasized its neutrality and impartiality in Somalia’s electoral processes, including the ongoing dispute surrounding Jubaland’s elections. The mission reiterated its commitment to facilitating a peaceful resolution to the electoral disagreement to ensure stability and security.

“The African Union urges all stakeholders, including the Federal Government of Somalia and Jubaland State authorities, to engage in constructive and inclusive discussions to resolve the dispute,” the statement read. 

ATMIS also reaffirmed its broader mandate to support Somalia’s state-building process, including assisting the country’s transition to one-person, one-vote elections through inclusive and participatory frameworks.  

The statement comes amid growing tensions between the Somali federal government and Jubaland government over the upcoming Jubaland presidential election of Monday.

Yesterday Jubaland’s interior Ministry Jubaland has issued a press statement urging that UN and ATMIS aircraft should not be used for political campaigns.