Credible elections in S.West crucial for peace- Haysom
UN envoy for Somalia Nicholas Haysom has called for credibility in the upcoming state presidential elections in South West state.
Speaking during a round visit to the states Wednesday in Baidoa the capital of South West state, Haysom said a fair and free poll is crucial in ensuring stability in the south western state and the country at large.
“We think it’s very important that the elections be held in a credible and acceptable manner in accordance with the rules that they’ve established so that the result is accepted – if the result is not accepted and there is conflict as a result there’ll be a problem, not only for the region but for the country,” said Haysom.
His remarks come amid concerns raised late last month by the federal state leaders in a meeting in Garowe that the federal government was pushing for a particular candidate and deploying state resources.
“It is unfortunate that the same FGS that “cannot afford” basic medical care for the regional forces that are wounded and fallen in battle lines with Al Shabaab every day is also wealthy and willing enough to part with millions of dollars for a highly resourced political campaign as well as airlifting to Baidoa of security personnel, weapons and brand new armored cars for the candidate (s) of their (FGS) own – in South West constitutional FMS. This is also aimed at creating mayhem in the election of the state,” a communique from the meeting read in part.
Haysom added the international community remains neutral in the electoral process but would be demanding for a fair process.
“Let me say right from the outset: the international community does not have a candidate [and] is not backing any candidate in this race, but we do want to see – and I’ve asked the president to reassure me – that the elections will be conducted in a way which all parties will able to accept, and he has reassured me that this indeed will be the case.”
Meanwhile AMISOM chief Francisco Madeira has urged all the candidates to conduct their affairs in a peaceful manner and avoid any actions that may jeopardise peace.
“We want this election to go smoothly, peacefully, and we, as AMISOM, are going to do our best, our utmost, to ensure that security is guaranteed, and we want the collaboration of everybody and every candidate that they do not indulge in situations that are likely to flare up violence and instability,” told the media.