Larry André calls Somalia’s government ‘illegitimate,’ urges action to halt Southwest conflict

MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Former United States Ambassador to Somalia Larry André Jr. has called on the international community to intensify pressure on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s government to halt conflict and civilian displacement in Southwest State, warning that continued instability could aggravate the region’s humanitarian crisis.

Speaking to Sky News, André accused the Somali federal government of exacerbating civilian suffering through political and military confrontations, arguing that its actions were compounding insecurity at a time when vulnerable communities urgently need humanitarian assistance.

He questioned the government’s legitimacy and accused it of deploying security forces primarily to advance political interests rather than protect civilians.

“It is an illegitimate government that has overstayed its mandate, and it is using its forces primarily as a political militia and producing refugees exactly from the same area,” André said.

His remarks underscore concerns about the intersection of political conflict, displacement and food insecurity in Southwest State. For communities already struggling with precarious livelihoods and limited resources, continued violence risks further restricting access to food, shelter and essential services.

Reported Turkish F-16 Airstrikes Raise Civilian Protection Concerns

André also raised concerns about the reported use of Turkish F-16 fighter jets in airstrikes in the region, warning of the potential consequences for communities already facing serious humanitarian challenges.

Military operations in vulnerable areas can disrupt livelihoods, force families from their homes and complicate humanitarian relief efforts. Protecting civilians and maintaining safe, reliable access for aid organisations are therefore essential to preventing further deterioration.

André Warns of Humanitarian Funding Shortfalls

The former ambassador urged international partners to press Mogadishu to end the violence, prevent further displacement and create conditions in which emergency assistance can reach affected populations.

He contrasted the billions of dollars mobilised by international donors during Somalia’s 2022 drought crisis with what he described as a reluctance to provide comparable levels of financial support today.

Any shortfall in humanitarian funding could place additional pressure on relief organisations working to support vulnerable households. Yet funding alone cannot resolve the crisis if insecurity prevents aid from reaching communities facing acute hardship.

André stressed that Somali authorities bear responsibility for protecting their citizens and addressing the country’s humanitarian needs, even as international assistance remains important.

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