UN Security Council regrets polls delay in Somalia, urges adherence to new timelines
The UN Security Council has expressed dismay over the delayed elections in Somalia calling on the country’s stakeholders to work constructively to implement the revised calendar without further delay.
The Council however commended Somalia for embracing a more inclusive electoral process particularly the move to ensure inclusion of minority clans and the 30% quota for women in both the Upper and Lower Houses.
“The Security Council notes that this electoral process is an historic opportunity to deliver more representative governance to the people of Somalia and to reflect Somalia’s diversity. In this regard, the Security Council welcomes the decision of the NLF on representation of minority clans and the Banadiri community,” Council President Ramlam Bin Ibrahim said Friday.
The statement comes as Somalia gears up for polls starting next month when the elections of the members of the Lower House takes place. The term of the current parliament comes to a close today while that of the president expires on September 10. But the National Leadership Forum, NLF which includes the President, PM, House Speaker and regional state leaders set out new timelines.
Members of both houses will be sworn in on October 20 in preparation for the presidential vote on October 30.
The Council also called on Somalia to ensure the political roadmap towards the one person one vote in 2020 is adhered to. In a communique early this month, the NLF noted all lawmakers will be required to subscribe to a political party within two years after being sworn in for the 10th parliament.
The UN organ also urged the elections be conducted in a transparent and credible manner taking into consideration respect for human rights.