H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Chairperson of the AU Commission./HANDOUTThe African Union Commission has clarified its October 1, statement on regional tensions following observations raised by Egypt, saying the remarks were intended to promote de-escalation and not assign responsibility for ongoing events.
In a clarification issued on Sunday, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to respecting the sovereignty, national unity and territorial integrity of African states, as well as the principle of non-interference in their internal affairs.
The AU said its approach prioritises political solutions over military action and that its statements are issued within its mandate to support peace, security and stability across the continent.
The Commission said its earlier statement was not intended to comment on the internal developments of any member state.
“In no way was the intent of the aforementioned statement to attribute responsibility for ongoing events to any neighbouring country,” the Commission said.
It explained that the statement was instead a call for the reduction of tensions following diplomatic expulsions from three capitals.
The AU Commission urged restraint, the preservation of open communication channels and the use of diplomatic means to address tensions.
It said the approach was consistent with its institutional responsibilities under the African Union’s Constitutive Act and the Protocol of the African Union Commission.
The Commission said the objective was to prevent misunderstandings, further escalation or the widening of tensions that could affect regional stability.
The clarification also sought to underscore the AU's relationship with Egypt, describing the country as a founding member of the African Union and an important partner in efforts to promote peace, security, integration and development across the continent.
“The African Union Commission attaches particular importance to its close relationship with the Arab Republic of Egypt and values its positions,” the statement said.
The Commission's clarification comes amid heightened regional tensions and follows Egypt's concerns over the wording and implications of the AU's earlier statement.
The AU maintained that its intervention was focused on encouraging dialogue and preventing further escalation rather than commenting on the domestic affairs of member states.
