MOGADISHU – The Somali Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a stern denial Tuesday regarding reports that it planned to expel the United Arab Emirates (UAE) ambassador, even as domestic tensions over constitutional reforms peaked.
Diplomatic relations have been strained since Somalia nullified several security agreements with the UAE earlier this year. However, the Ministry stated that “diplomatic channels remain open” to ensure maritime security.
Internally, the March 2026 approval of amendments to the Provisional Constitution continues to provoke backlash.
While the government views the amendments as a milestone in state-building, Federal Member States like Jubaland and Puntland have withdrawn cooperation, accusing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of centralizing power. The standoff has resulted in sporadic armed clashes between federal and regional forces.
