Ethiopia-Somaliland agreement: Somalia promises to defend itself

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud recently strongly affirmed his country's resolve to oppose any move by Ethiopia to establish a naval base in the disputed Somaliland region.

The statement comes after Ethiopia reached an agreement on January 1 to lease 20 km of coastline to Somaliland, despite Somalia's persistent territorial claims. Additionally, Addis Ababa has expressed its desire to establish a naval base in the region, offering possible recognition of Somali territory in exchange.

In an interview with Reuters earlier this week, the Somali president stressed that if Ethiopia maintained its position, his country would not hesitate to take firm measures to defend itself, without however specifying the actions envisaged.

These tensions revive memories of past clashes between Ethiopia and Somalia for control of this region, dating back to the conflicts of 1977-1978 and 1982.

As the situation continues to evolve, international observers are closely monitoring this rise in tension which could have significant implications for the stability of the region.

Senegal: the opposition demands clarification from Macky Sall

Senegalese President Macky Sall confirmed Thursday during a televised address that his mandate will end in April as planned, but without specifying a new date for the presidential election which was initially scheduled for this Sunday, February 25.

Opponents of the postponement of the presidential election and the extension of Macky Sall's mandate remained unsatisfied, hoping for a clear announcement from the president.

The opposition wanted the election to be held in March, in order to respect the constitutional date of April 2 for the transfer of power. However, President Macky Sall said he was awaiting the conclusions of the dialogue he convened this week to set a specific date for the election.

This dialogue could see the participation of the opposition candidate, Bassirou Diomaye Faye of the Pastef party, currently in prison, as well as his mentor, Ousmane Sonko.

President Macky Sall said he was not opposed to their release. The discussions are scheduled for next Monday and Tuesday.