On Friday 26^th December, Somali journalists received a baffling statement in which the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) publicly disassociated itself from its long-serving Force Spokesperson Col. Ali Aden Houmed.

Somali media houses have built a strong and professional relationship in the last two years with Col. Houmed. He has continually provided a courteous and credible service that has forged a steadfast relationship between AMISOM, the Somali media and the public.

In a period marked with both watershed moments and adversity, he has maintained an assuring persona, striking a chord with ordinary Somalis across the country with whom he shares a common language and culture.

This latest move, if accurate, sends a clear message that AMISOM wishes to further distance itself from the Somali media and public and operate an inaccessible public information service. In the 24 hours since this press release was issued, we have made numerous attempts to contact Mr. Eloi, who is cited as the spokesperson, without success.

We urge AMISOM’s leadership to clarify this confusing situation, take urgent steps to salvage public confidence and we hope that the mutually beneficial relationship built through the efforts of Col. Houmed will continue.