Former Presidents call for compromise and rule of law in ongoing political crisis

Two former Presidents have weighed in on the ongoing political stand-off in the country calling for compromise and protection of the interests of the country.

Presidents Sheikh Sharif Ahmed and Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said in separate statements the political disputes risked eroding the gains made so far but noted there was room to address them.

Ahmed who served as the last Transitional Federal Government president with his reign ending in 2012 called on political leaders in the country to consider ‘the long journey the country has come, where we are and where we are heading to’.

“I therefore humbly request you not to destroy the little achievements at hand and all the ongoing misunderstandings should be addressed as provided for in the Federal Constitution,” Ahmed said in a Facebook post.

His successor also urged the political leadership in the country to agree to compromise for the sake of the country.

“The differences have to be solved through negotiation and compromise,” said Mohamud. “There is opportunity and it must be seized, failure to which it won’t come back.” He also called for respect of the constitution and all the laws of the land.

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The statements come amid a persisting political crisis lasting through the month of March as factions allied to both Lower House speaker Mohamed Jawari and Prime Minister Hassan Khaire battle out over impeachment motions.

President Mohamed Farmaajo Friday night met the Federal Parliament leaders in which it was agreed to cancel today’s session.