Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud touched down in Kampala, Uganda, marking the commencement of an extraordinary IGAD summit. The summit takes center stage in addressing the escalating tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, primarily triggered by a contentious lease agreement in the autonomous region of Somaliland. This agreement proposes Ethiopia's leasing of a coastal stretch for a port and military base in exchange for recognizing Somaliland's sovereignty. President Mohamud's presence precedes the 19th Non-Aligned Movement Summit.
Championed by Djibouti's President and IGAD Chairman, Ismail Omar Guelleh, the special session aims to tackle issues surrounding regional stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, focusing on both Somalia and Sudan. The summit unfolds in the wake of Ethiopia's signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, vehemently opposed by the Somali government, citing a violation of sovereignty.
The IGAD Secretariat, led by former Ethiopian Foreign Minister Workneh Gebeyehu, encounters criticism from Somali leaders demanding an apology for perceived bias. Simultaneously, Ethiopian officials express dissatisfaction with IGAD's approach, as global pressure in support of Somalia intensifies.
Citing scheduling conflicts, Ethiopia opts for non-participation in the summit but expresses openness to explore alternative dates. Despite the controversy, Ethiopia remains steadfast in asserting the legality of its agreement with Somaliland, contending that it respects the sovereignty of other nations.
In parallel developments, Sudan withdraws from the summit, emphasizing the need for direct discussions among its top military leaders. This decision prompts Sudan to sever ties with the regional body, injecting additional complexities into the already strained diplomatic landscape.
Extraordinary IGAD Summit Addresses Ethiopia-Somalia Tensions Amid Diplomatic Complexities
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud touched down in Kampala, Uganda, marking the commencement of an extraordinary IGAD summit. The summit takes center stage in addressing the escalating tensions between Ethiopia and Somalia, primarily triggered by