MOGADISHU (KAAB TV) – Larry André, who served as the U.S. Ambassador to Somalia from February 2022 to May 2023, has issued a stark warning about the dangers posed by clan rivalries and internal political strife, calling them major obstacles to lasting peace and stability in Somalia.
In an interview with The Washington Post, André pointed to the violence surrounding the 2022 elections as a clear indicator of Somalia’s ongoing political volatility, describing it as a serious threat to national stability.
“Despite efforts to preserve Somalia’s unity, persistent clan divisions continue to hinder progress toward peace and stability,” said André.
He also expressed concern that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has become overly focused on domestic political maneuvering, potentially at the expense of addressing terrorism and building a cohesive national government.
André’s remarks come at a critical juncture for Somalia, as the country faces upcoming elections and continues to grapple with serious security threats from the militant group Al-Shabaab.
The United States, a key ally of Somalia, has voiced growing concern over the country’s fragile political environment—especially as tensions escalate around the electoral process.