H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairperson of the African Union Commission, expressed concern on Saturday about the Somali Prime Minister’s decision to expel the AU envoy to Somalia, Ambassador Francisco Madeira.
After accusing Ambassador Francisco Madeira of “engaging in acts that are incompatible with his status,” Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble declared him persona non grata on Thursday.
The African Union’s continued commitment to support the government of Somalia in its pursuit of lasting peace, security, and stability was reaffirmed in a statement by the chairperson, who stated that he has full trust and confidence in SRCC Ambassador Madeira.
President Farmajo rebuffed the Somali Prime Minister’s announcement, calling the expulsion a “illegal action” against Madeira. According to Villa Somalia, only the President has the authority to expel a foreign diplomat.
H.E Moussa Faki Mahamat, chairperson of the African Union Commission, expresses his gratitude for the official letter from the Somali President, but expresses regret for the Prime Minister’s press release.
Madeira, a Mozambique native, was appointed to the position in October 2015.