Somalia holds elections after 45 years, says president Hassan

Somali president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said Somalia has achieved tangible progresses in political reconciliation and that the country is expecting to hold elections later this year for the first time in 47 years.

Speaking at 26th Summit of African Union, President Hassan said the maturity and the readiness of the Somalis has led the progresses achieved.

The president applauded International community for its support to Somalia during hard times the country passed.

“I thank international community especially African Union for the role it played to stabilize Somalia” he said.

During his speech at AU Summit, the president pointed out the need for sustained support to Somalia by the international community in order to facilitate the political process that will lead to an electoral transition by October 2016.

Meanwhile Several National consultative forums were held in the country – the latest in early January at Mogadishu, but no tangible results and resolutions were announced after days of closed door meetings between Federal leaders and Heads of federal members States.