Somalia's regional state urged to dialogue to resolve differences

The United Nations and international partners in Somalia on Tuesday called on leaders in the regional state of Galmudug to resolve their differences through dialogue and reconciliation.

In a joint statement issued in Mogadishu, the envoys from the UN, Africa Union, EU, U.S. decried that dialogue aimed at achieving reconciliation has stalled

"The partners call on all parties to avoid any actions that could undermine reconciliation efforts, and they stand ready to facilitate the reconciliation process if all parties agree," the partners said.

Observers say the dispute, which started in January and led to a vote to remove the President from office, is potentially destabilizing.

President Abdikarim Guled lost no-confidence vote in Parliament in January after lawmakers criticized him of poor leadership.

Guled, who had been in office since July 2015, resigned in February, citing health reasons prompted his sudden decision.

The international partners, who are closely following the developments in Galmudug, said they were encouraged by the positive steps taken by the parties in the past few weeks to open dialogue aimed at achieving reconciliation, holding inclusive elections and establishing a broad-based administration which is critical for the legitimacy, improved security and viability of the regional state.

"International partners are disappointed to learn that the dialogue has stalled," they said, calling on all parties to continue the dialogue in good faith.

The partners also urged the warring parties to pursue all opportunities to achieve reconciliation and prioritize the establishment of an inclusive administration in Galmudug. Endit