Jubaland and Puntland call on FGS to work on resolving pre-poll dispute

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Puntland and Jubaland have called on the Federal Government of Somalia [FGS] to work on resolving the pre-election crisis, mainly the dispute over some issues related to the Sep 17 electoral deal.

The two Somali Federal States on the other hand endorsed an agreement reached between the Federal Government of Somalia [FGS] and the opposition leaders, which could lead to a clear path to reconciliation in the country.

On Thursday, outgoing Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble convened a meeting that brought together 15 presidential candidates in Mogadishu, following weeks of accusations and counter-accusations, which threatens integration and stability in Somalia.

Among others, the FGS agreed to constitute a commission of enquiry on the deadly shootings that targeted opposition supporters last week. The government also agreed to continue engaging the opposition on a clear path to elections.

Besides apologizing to those who were affected by demonstrations, the government also pledged to provide security for peaceful demonstrations in the coming days. The opposition postponed protests that had been organized on Friday.

And Jubaland state welcomed the move, arguing that it eases political tensions that were building up following the expiry of President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo's tenure, which lapsed on February 8, without clear options to the next general elections.

"The Government of Jubaland State welcomes the agreement reached between the Federal Government and the Presidential Candidates Union. Moreover, Jubaland commends the important role played by Prime Minister Mohamed Roble and the Presidential candidates," read a statement from Puntland.

"Jubaland also thanks to the Presidents of Galmudug and Hirshabelle States and the Mayor of Muqdisho for the crucial role they played in this agreement," the statement further indicated, in what could see Kismayo actively participating in subsequent conferences on election stalemate.

Similarly, Puntland echoed the sentiments by Jubaland, arguing that the agreement would give a conducive environment for future engagements. Presidents Said Abdullahi Deni and Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe have been criticizing the federal government over the matter.

Present at Thursday's meeting were former Presidents Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, along with former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire. The opposition team is pushing for the ouster of Farmajo, who has refused to handover to the transitional council.

GAROWE ONLINE