By Horn Post | News Desk
MOGADISHU (Horn post) The Federal Government of Somalia has issued a strong condemnation of ongoing violence in Sudan, even as analysts and critics highlight Somalia’s own worsening internal political and security crises and question the government’s focus on foreign affairs amid mounting domestic challenges.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Somalia said it “strongly condemns the criminal attacks carried out by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) against civilian facilities and World Food Program (WFP) humanitarian convoys in the North and South Kordofan regions.”
According to the statement, the attacks resulted in civilian deaths and injuries. Mogadishu said such actions constitute “grave violations of international humanitarian law and all relevant international norms and conventions.”
The Somali government called on the RSF to immediately halt the violations, fulfill its legal and moral obligations to protect civilians, and ensure the safe, unconditional delivery of humanitarian assistance. It also urged full compliance with the Jeddah Declaration on the Protection of Civilians in Sudan.
The statement further reaffirmed Somalia’s support for Sudan’s unity, sovereignty, security, and stability, backing regional and international efforts aimed at ending the conflict, while warning against the risks of foreign interference.
Domestic realities raise questions
While the condemnation aligns with established diplomatic positions on humanitarian law, the statement has drawn scrutiny at home, where Somalia itself remains mired in political deadlock, armed conflict, and institutional fragility.
Political observers note that Somalia’s internal situation is, in several respects, comparable to — and in some areas worse than — the crisis it is condemning abroad. The country is facing an ongoing political dispute that has stalled government operations and reform agendas, while active fighting has continued in multiple regions.
In recent days, clashes have been reported in and around Baidoa, the capital of the Southwest State, underscoring the persistent insecurity affecting federal member states. At the same time, the government continues military operations in parts of the country, even as Al-Shabaab has reportedly taken control of areas located roughly 70 kilometers from Mogadishu.
Critics also point to Somalia’s heavy dependence on international aid, noting recent incidents involving the looting of food assistance donated by the United States, as further evidence of weak governance and limited state control.
Focus on foreign policy amid internal strain
Analysts argue that the federal leadership’s emphasis on regional and international issues contrasts sharply with its limited success in stabilizing the country, resolving political disputes, and securing territory.
“Somalia’s foreign policy rhetoric is often assertive, but it is not matched by progress at home,” said one political analyst in Mogadishu. “There is growing public frustration that officials are prioritizing overseas travel and external statements while domestic insecurity, political paralysis, and humanitarian needs remain unresolved.”
As Somalia continues to comment on crises beyond its borders, critics say restoring internal stability, improving governance, and addressing security threats at home remain the country’s most urgent priorities.
Prepared by:
Horn post staff reporter
Mogadishu.
