The African Union (AU) on Wednesday expressed its deep concerns at the evolution of the situation in Somalia, particularly the insurgence activities by armed groups opposed to the peace and reconciliation process.
In a statement, AU Commission Chairperson Jean Ping condemned the aggression perpetrated against the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) and its institutions, as well as the civilian population by these armed groups.
He expressed concerns at the increasingly precarious humanitarian situation which has led to the displacement of thousands of persons in the last few days. The number of people fleeing the Somali capital in the last 12 days has now risen to 45,000, according to the office of UN High Commissioner for Refugees(UNHCR).
The deteriorating security situation has sharply decreased humanitarian space in the conflict area, hampering the delivery of aid to the displaced, said the UN agency.
The chairperson reiterated the AU's support and commitment to the TFG, saying that the continued attacks on the government "are rejected as an attempt of unconstitutional change of government."
Any move that derails the TFG will be sanctioned by Africa and the international community, he said.
Welcoming the recent commitment by the international community to assist Somalia, The AU chief urged all Somalis "to refrain from using violence and join the reconciliation process to build a peaceful and democratic Somalia."
Clashes between Allied fighters of Al-Shabaab and Hezbul Islam (Islamic Party) faction and the Somali government in recent days led to the capture of a number of key positions in Mogadishu and two main central Somalia towns from government forces, raising fears the government could collapse.
Source: Xinhua
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