Somalia: Puntland President addresses parliament as 37th session starts

GAROWE, Somalia-The President of Somalia’s Puntland government Abdiweli Mohamed Ali has convened 37th session of parliament amid growing public frustration over currency devaluation, Garowe Online reports. 

The President delivered a lengthy speech focusing on security, economy, 2016 electoral transition and economic infrastructure development. 

Members of cabinet, defence officials, parastatals heads, international community representatives, Islamic scholars, traditional leaders and diaspora were invited to the parliamentary session.  

Deputy parliament speaker Abdihamid Sheikh Abdisalan said in his opening remarks that the lawmakers will appraise the government delivery in line with its promises and passing of laws proposed for approval over the course of the legislative session. 

Puntland President addressed the 66-seat-chamber on latest security measures adopted in light of terror threats posed to state security. Ali noted that the armed forces put a tight security in place in coastal areas along the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea following the neutralization of boatloads of militants in March.  

He has not discussed hyperinflation and Somali shilling gradually becoming valueless in his presidential address, but in turn insisted that his government will continue capitalizing on impressive infrastructure growth for economy.  

Puntland leader showcased the progress registered in aviation sector, pointing to the completion of first phase of Bossaso airport upgrade project and ongoing renovation of Garowe’s whose runway is 50 percent complete.  

Stressing the significance of more accountable government, he also called on the parliament to set the same example as his administration. 

--Disappointed at electoral hurdles  

On Somalia’s electoral transition expected to begin by August this year, Puntland President said, he has been left disappointed by political practices of federal leadership.  

Ali indicated that Puntland committed moral and financial support to the national endeavor. 

However, he said expectations were not fulfilled.  Continuing, he also threw a light on agreements signed between Puntland, IGAD and several EU nations.  

The parliamentary session starts a day after the President sacked Puntland Intelligence Agency (PIA) commander-in-Chief and his deputy as part of security reforms.

GAROWEONLINE