Somalia: Kismayo forum begins despite differences

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KISMAYO, Somalia, January 14, 2016 (Garowe Online)-Somali political leaders have gathered for critical talks on model for electoral transition later this year in the southern port city of Kismayo on Thursday, Garowe Online reports.

Cracks over whether Somalia should adopt hybrid transition or continue with 4.5 quota are still looming larger.

Jubaland leader Sheikh Ahmed Mohamed Islam (Madobe) asked President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to put historic mark on the outcome of Kismayo conference s in his opening remarks.

The forum may drag on over the next four days, officials have hinted.

The political talks marred by deadlocks and delay by three days are seen critical in Somalia’s touted stepping stone for full transition into direct vote by 2020.

Puntland and Jubaland are insisting on region-based model while southern administrations continue offering cold shoulder to any shift from traditional 4.5 power sharing formula. 

GAROWE ONLINE

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