In a bid to avert the looming specter of war between Ethiopia and Somalia, the African Union's Peace and Security Council (PSC) has enlisted the diplomatic prowess of former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.
The tension between the neighboring nations escalated following an accord between Ethiopia and the secessionist region of Somaliland on January 1st. This agreement conferred control over a Red Sea maritime port and a military base to Ethiopia, triggering a precarious geopolitical dance.
Somalia, in response, declared its readiness for war, recalling historical clashes in 1977 and 2006. Somaliland's strategic move, granting Ethiopia access to its territory, is rooted in a quest for international recognition as an independent state since its 1991 separation from the union with Somalia.
Obasanjo faces a daunting task navigating this delicate diplomatic landscape. Recent events, such as Somalia turning away an Ethiopian delegation, underscore the complexity of the situation. The PSC has called for adherence to AU and international law principles, emphasizing the need for both nations to find common ground.
Despite the African Union viewing Somaliland as part of Somalia, tensions persist. Obasanjo's mediation role comes amid calls against external interference, with IGAD convening an extraordinary summit in Kampala. However, Somalia's firm stance insists on Ethiopia reversing its January 1 agreement for any meaningful dialogue to occur.
"The sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia have been violated by Ethiopia," asserts the Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs, setting the tone for a challenging negotiation process under Obasanjo's guidance.