​Somalia: Religious scholars slammed women quota

MOGADISHU, Somalia- Somali Religious Council has opposed the 30 per cent quota for women in the upcoming electoral process, endorsed by Leaders of the Federal government and regional administrations, Garowe Online reports.

During a press conference held in the capital Mogadishu, on Sunday, Chairman of the Somali Religious Council, Shaikh Bashir Ahmed Salad, has warned against advocating for women to participate in the elections, saying it’s against Islamic principles.

“We warn against women quota in politics, it is not locally driven but western driven agenda that carries foreign culture and beliefs that does not reflect the local circumstances,” said Shaikh Bashir.

The Council also called Somali women to adhere to the Islamic principles and stop leading culture-driven agendas from non-Muslim countries.  

“Our country was ruined by tribalism and today they want to disintegrate our family by pushing forward the women quota,” added Shaikh Bashir.

Somalia is preparing to start parliamentary polls in this month that will conclude with the voting of new lawmakers to a new president in November 30.  

The Religious Council statement comes amid continuous efforts from the International community and donors to ensure Somali government commitment to honor women quota in the upcoming parliamentary elections.

 GAROWEONLINE