Ambassador Donald Yamamoto has urged Somalia to reject calls for extending the terms of elected leaders around the country.
The latest views by Yamamoto, the United States Ambassador to Somalia, represent a change from his earlier stance in May.
Back in May, he had stated that Somalis were free to decide to postpone the elections, which are due this year.
On Thursday August 13, though, he made it clear that Somalis should say no to term extensions.
Further, he assured Somalis of the support of the United States government and other members of the international community.
Ambassador Yamamoto urged all stakeholders in Somalia’s upcoming polls to embrace consensus-building initiatives.
He encouraged political leaders to consult widely to find a solution that works for all.
The US Ambassador to Somalia also stated that leaders have to adhere to recommendations from the ongoing Dhusamareb talks.