By The Star Staff Writer
MOGADISHU – Somalis are once again up in arms against foreign diplomats working in their country, accusing them of “legitimizing” what they consider as regional “warlords.”
Last month, Somali Twitter users ripped UN envoy to Somalia Michael Keating for participating in a gathering by regional chiefs in the coastal city of Kismayo.
On Oct. 3, Swedish Ambassador Andreas von Uexküll was caught up in the maelstrom of the row between regional administrators, who’re loathed by many Somalis, and the Somali government, which ordinary citizens would like to see it have the last word on their country’s affairs.
Uexküll said in a tweet that he was, “Honored to discuss the meaning of inclusive politics with H.E. President Madobe of Jubaland State. All leaders in Somalia need to be at the table to ensure a stable and prosperous Somalia at peace with itself and neighbours.”
The diplomat also shared a photo of him standing alongside Ahmed Mohamed Islam, popularly known as Ahmed Madobe, who’s the chief of the Kismayo administration.
The tweet instantly drew pointed reactions from Somalis, who interpreted the diplomat’s call for dialogue among Somalis as a part of the Western countries’ incessant interference in Somalia.
“Mr. Ambassor (sic) with all due respect, I think all Ambassadors should stop interferring (sic) in the internal affairs of Somalia. Our FGS can handle all domestic issues,” tweeted Abdullahi A. Addow, referring to the federal government of Somalia.
Saeed Dalmar was also angry at the envoy’s statement, saying foreign delegations” create a “big” problem when they meddle in the country.
“… Why are you legitimizing those Leaders Who (are) determine(d) to destroy and Divide our people? Why? I urge SFG to remove anyone who is Legitimizing those corrupted leaders like Madoobe,Gaas & Xaaf,” he said Dalmar, mentioning the names of three regional chiefs.
Uexküll was one of several Western diplomats who last week tried to broker a deal between the central government and regional administrations, an initiative rebuffed by Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire who said that Somalis alone were capable of resolving their differences without any foreign mediation.
Concerned about their country’s political health and territorial integrity, Twitter users have last month let fly at Keating, the UN envoy, telling him to “leave” Somalia. Nicholas Haysom, a South African, has already replaced Keating.
What irritated Somalis seemed to have been Keating’s characterization of self-seeking politicians, who don’t even fully control the cities that host their headquarters, as presidents.
Uexküll appeared to have made the same gaffe, calling the Kismayo chief “H.E. President Madobe of Jubaland State.”
“This is one of the problems with Somalia. Foreign actors giving legitimacy to warlords like Madoobe in #Somalia,” tweeted Somali Patriot@Kooshin2018.
Hibo Omar urged the Ambassador to keep off Somalia’s internal politics.
“Your are an ambassador stick to your role and stop meeting with regional leaders. Somali sovereignty matters a lot.#nomoredomesticinterference, “ wrote Hibo on her Twitter feed.
Mohamed Farah has also told Uexküll to engage the central government.
“Ambassador stop interfering our internal issues, stop meeting with regional leaders you can only meet the federal government,” said Farah.
Maanso Peace Centre, however, supported the Ambassador’s call for dialogue.
“@AUexkullThank you ambassador for the meaningful note. It’s very important for Somali ldeaders (sic) to understand that there are many important positive things they can work together rather the little differences which they can resolve through dialogue.#Call for political stability,” the center tweeted.
But the majority of those who reacted to the diplomat’s tweet saw it differently.
“@AUexkullThe problem it’s not us, it’s the west that is interfering with Somalia’s peace and prosperity, especially when you refer to a tyrant as a “President” our President is @M_Farmaajoif you didn’t know NOW you know,” tweeted Lovely Lucky@Lucky02441739·