Somalia: Kismayo talks break down

KISMAYO, Somalia, January 16, 2016 (Garowe Online)-Packed political talks in the southern port city of Kismayo are on the verge of collapse, insiders have told Garowe Online.

A two-day deliberation has reportedly hit a brick wall over the future of 4.5 power sharing formula after its fate has split politicians into two camps.

Puntland and Jubaland refused to agree that lower house be based on 4.5 quota while upper house members will be evenly distributed to interim regional administrations and federal member states.

International community members, more notably United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) officials are not present in the conference hall.

--Talks break down, as it happens

Kismayo political talks have unraveled on whether Somalia should move away from 4.5 representation system or adopt more enhanced legitimacy option.

Diplomats are telling Garowe Online that a roadmap similar to pre-transition one could be in the pipeline for the war-ravaged East African country.

Roundtable began on Thursday under the shadow of differences brewing between two political camps.

Puntland and Jubaland are insisting on constituencies, something defied by Somalia Federal Government and southern administrations.

As of Saturday morning, officials were working towards a communiqué that could be setting another date for political talks.

GAROWE ONLINE