Somalia's outgoing president receives credentials from new UK ambassador

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Outgoing President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo on Wednesday received a new envoy from the United Kingdom amid speculations about his legitimacy following the expiry of his term on Feb 8, leading to the current political stalemate.

The lapsing of Farmajo's term has raised concerns over the future of the country and the admission of the envoy, who presented her credentials on Wednesday, may be subject to interrogation given that Farmajo does not have legitimacy in accordance with the constitution.

"It is regrettable that the new UK ambassador to Somalia started her job to present her accreditation letter to Farmajo whose term ended on 8 Feb. This is immoral & contrary to the long-standing tradition of respect to the rule of law for which the UK has been a pioneer," said opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur.

But Ms. Kate Foster, who now takes over from Ben Fender, said that it was a privilege to take over as the UK envoy to Somalia, adding that her experience in the NGOs makes her understand many challenges which the country is facing.

Somalia, she noted, has been struggling with violent extremism, civil war, political intolerance among others, but noted that there were many positives that have been recorded in recent days, adding that the UK will work closely with Mogadishu by supporting various development projects.

“It is my honor and privilege to take up the role of British Ambassador to Somalia. The history between the UK and Somalia is long and deep. Somalia may have faced challenges in the recent past but there is tremendous progress which we've all noticed," she noted.

Besides helping Somalia by sending donor funds to various organizations, the US has been supportive by helping Mogadishu train Somali National Army [SNA] in Baidoa, who are tasked in the fight against Al-Shabaab militants.

GAROWE ONLINE