A diplomatic storm is brewing in Somalia following remarks made at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) by Sivuyile Bam, deputy head of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). Bam’s stark and controversial assessment of Somalia’s security landscape — claiming that Al Shabaab militants are now stronger than ever and have re-established bases near Mogadishu — has triggered outrage among Somali government officials and sparked calls for his expulsion from the country.

Bam’s comments, which were made during a briefing to the UNSC in New York earlier this week, have been described by Somali officials as not only misleading but also an insult to the sacrifices made by both Somali security forces and African Union troops. The remarks stand in stark contrast to the Somali government’s narrative and recent military successes, which include the liberation of over 130 towns and villages from the terrorist group Al Shabaab.

A Stark Contrast Between Words and Reality

In his address, Bam painted a grim picture of Somalia’s security situation, asserting that Al Shabaab remains an existential threat and is now operating with increased freedom around the outskirts of Mogadishu. “Despite the efforts, with money and blood, of ATMIS and Somali forces, Al Shabaab have based with the vicinity of Mogadishu and are stronger than ever before,” Bam told the Council.

These remarks have been met with disbelief and anger in Mogadishu. According to sources within the Federal Government of Somalia, senior officials were left “deeply upset” by Bam’s speech, which they viewed as not only detached from ground realities but also harmful to the morale of Somali forces and the general public.

Somalia’s Security Gains Overlooked

Government officials and security analysts argue that Bam’s statement dangerously overlooks the substantial progress Somalia has made in its war against terror. In the past two years, under the leadership of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the Somali National Army (SNA), supported by local communities and ATMIS, has recaptured more than 130 towns and villages from Al Shabaab control, particularly in the central regions of Galmudug and Hirshabelle.

In addition to these territorial gains, Mogadishu — long a flashpoint of terrorist attacks — has experienced a relative calm for the first time in nearly 15 years. Major attacks have significantly declined, and security checkpoints have been reduced in the city, a sign of growing confidence in local law enforcement and intelligence agencies.

“The deputy’s remarks are not only inaccurate but undermine the work of thousands of brave Somali and African Union troops who have fought and died to Al Shabab from Somalia,” said a senior government official who requested anonymity. “We are not claiming total victory, but to suggest things are worse than ever is factually wrong and diplomatically irresponsible.”

In the wake of the controversial speech, sources within the federal government have indicated that the Somali government is actively considering declaring Sivuyile Bam persona non grata (PNG), a formal move that would effectively expel him from the country. While no official statement has yet been released, several insiders suggest that a decision could be announced within days.

“If he stays, it will damage the trust between the Somali government and the African Union mission,” said one political advisor. “His words have given propaganda material to our enemies and demoralised our allies.”

Such a move would not be unprecedented. Somalia has in the past expelled diplomats and international representatives whose actions were deemed incompatible with the country’s sovereignty or national interests. However, expelling a senior AU official would mark a serious escalation in tensions between Somalia and its regional partners at a time when ATMIS is preparing to hand over full security responsibilities to Somali forces by the end of 2024.

Read more: U Deputy’s UNSC Remarks Spark Outrage in Somalia Amid Security Gains

Source: Horn of Africa Intelligence