22 December 2018, Djibouti: The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) strongly condemns the deadly explosions perpetrated by Al Shabaab at a Military checkpoint in Mogadishu earlier today, leaving many people dead and others wounded.

The Inter-Governmental Authority on the Development (IGAD) follows closely developments in the Federal Republic of Somalia and stands ready to support the ongoing regional election process that will lead to one man one vote by 2020.

IGAD warmly welcomes the commitment of the Federal Government of Somalia to hold a universal, fair and free election in 2020 to ensure inclusive politics at the core of its reform agenda towards Federalization as expressed through the Political Roadmap of Somalia. IGAD encourages the process aimed at democratizing Somalia to consolidate good governance and wide participation of citizens to exercise their democratic and citizenry rights.

IGAD continues its commitment to support the Federal Government and people of Somalia at this critical time for unity of purpose and sustainable peace and stability in the Country. The multi-dimensional progress enjoyed through the endeavor of the Federal Government and the Somali people and the region at large cannot easily be taken for granted. The role of AMISOM and the Troops and Polices Contributing Countries have been essential to Somalia’s peace and stability.

In this process, IGAD will remain committed to support the Federal Government of Somalia in accelerating the political decision- making process necessary to build consensus and national unity.

In Garowe, the mission held discussions with President Abdiweli Mohamed Ali Gaas, Vice President Abdihakim Abdullahi Haji Omar and Traditional Elders from the Sool region. In Hargeisa, they met with President Muse Bihi Abdi, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Saad Shire, and other members of the Cabinet, together with members of the two Houses of Parliament, as well leaders of the UCID and WADDANI opposition political parties, representatives from civil society and a committee of Somaliland elders and entrepreneurs who are working with their counterparts from Puntland to de-escalate tensions and create conditions that should allow a peaceful solution and restore the free flow of people, goods and services between Puntland and Somaliland.

The mission discussed with the interlocutors some ideas on how they could work towards resolving the Tukaraq crisis and exchanged views on the way forward.

The discussions were held in a very positive atmosphere. The leaders of both Somaliland and Puntland and all other interlocutors from both sides reiterated their commitment to finding a peaceful solution. They openly explained their positions, welcomed the ideas from the joint mission as a good basis for taking forward the ongoing search for a solution and shared additional ideas for consideration.

The joint IGAD-UN team will now further elaborate the emerging ideas and clarify issues that came up during the discussions, with a view to returning to Puntland and Somaliland for further discussions in the coming days and weeks.