Somalia: State formation convention reopens in cautious atmosphere

JOWHAR, Somalia-Clan elders have resumed State formation convention in southern Somalia in a cautious atmosphere on Wednesday following a two-month pause over alleged meddling, Garowe Online reports. 

A Somali government delegation led by Interior Minister Abdirahman Odawa has attended the reopening event of conference aimed at overcoming differences, and forming a federal administration ahead of national poll expected to be held later this year. 

The endeavor stalled after cracks emerged between Somalia Federal Government and traditional leaders in late January. 

Elders blamed Somalia’s Federal Government for indecent interference and hijacking of agendas.

The state formation wrangle reportedly stemmed from selection of delegates for Hiran-Middle Shabelle convention as UN-backed national government pushes for consensus before presidential elections in 2016.

Odawa on Wednesday struck cautious tone, telling participating clan elders that they are responsible for the agendas of conference.  

He also spoke on the president expected at the end of the conference, whom he said would come under viable process.  

Elders on their side cautioned against return of previous impediments of state formation exercise.  

Somali political leaders Tuesday ruled out term extension after a leadership forum in Mogadishu.

GAROWEONLINE