UN Security Council in Somalia in show of solidarity

MOGADISHU, Somalia-Diplomats from United Nations Security Council (UNSC)’s 15-member States on Thursday landed in Mogadishu in a show of solidarity with conflict-battered Somalia under tight security for key talks with political leaders, Garowe Online reports. 

The itinerary that also includes Nairobi and Cairo is touted as critical at a time Somalia prepares to hold parliamentary and presidential elections by year end. 

On Thursday, Somali Parliament Speaker Mohamed Sheikh Osman Jawari announced that vote on electoral proposal has been postponed until Saturday  in yet another political conundrum which could add to the concerns of western donors for long baffled by the slower pace of the country’s transition from clan-based 4.5 power sharing formula to direct poll.  

UN Security Council delegates expressed solidarity of international community to Somalia, urging parliament to adopt election proposal for technical preparations.  

Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke, regional presidents and members from parliament and cabinet joined Mohamud for the meeting with UN Security Council members.  Election benchmarks and recent deals on the poll transition were high on the agenda during the discussion at seaside Mogadishu airport.  

Diplomats pressed Somali political leaders on the slated date of parliamentary and presidential election and selection processes.  

Somali President on his side promised that the country will hold election at due date without any delay, and requested for more support for political transition.  

Mohamud who asked parliament to speed up passage of poll module earlier today noted that security situation is improving in many parts of the country except for ongoing offensives against Al Shabaab militants.  

Despite sticking points, international diplomats hope the 275-seat-chamber of parliament to endorse a blueprint previously marred by months of deadlock.

GAROWEONLINE