Somalia: President Hassan calls PM’s cabinet reshuffle ‘unconstitutional’

MOGADISHU, Somalia Oct 25, 2014 (Garowe Online)-As International Community and political analysts continue to keep vigil on shift in political atmosphere at Villa Somalia Presidential Compound following the removal of presidential aide from key post, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vented his spleen over the cabinet reshuffle on Saturday evening, Garowe Online reports.

According to a press statement from his office, Mohamud called the brief reshuffle ‘illegitimate’ and ‘unconstitutional’ which was carried out without prior consultations with the head of state.

President Mohamud like former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon-who was ousted in parliamentary no confidence vote in late 2013-accused the current Prime Minister of power abuse and of being obstacle to the progress of the government.

“For several times, while safeguarding the public interests I tolerated unacceptable moves that run counter to the constitutional powers of the president and [Provisional Federal Constitutional],” said Somalia President, referring to the whips cracked by Prime Minister Mohamed.

Mohamud added that the Prime Minister sacked ministers and appointed others without holding consultations with him and reviewing the constitution.

“Having considered the sensitivity of the present time, governance system and constitution, I hereby declare the cabinet reshuffle made by Prime Minister on October 25, 2015’ non-existent’, urge each and every minister to exercise his duties, and defy the cabinet reshuffle, call on security forces to press ahead with operations and ask army commanders, and civil servants to continue their routine duties,” the Press statement read.

Insiders tell GO that President Hassan was infuriated by the replacement of his right hand man and Minister of Justice and Constitution-Farah ShiekhAbdulkadir-with SalimAliyowIbrow, former Minister of Livestock and animal husbandry.

On September 7, cabinet ministers fired National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) Boss Abdullahi Mohamed Ali (Sanbaloshe) in extra-ordinary meeting.

As enshrined in article 100 of Provisional Federal Constitution (PFC), Prime Minister is charged with appointment, sacking and reshuffle of the cabinet, while President plays consulting role.

Complex clan politics and personal loyalties may be fuelling the communal political infighting that has raged between President Mohamud and Prime Minister Mohamed, diplomatic sources unveil. 

GAROWE ONLINE