FGS cautions Int'l partners against interfering with Somalia's internal politics

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Somalia cabinet has expressed concerns over recent statements from a number of international players who have openly rebuked the ouster of Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, who was fired by MPs on Saturday, terming the sentiments as "uncalled" for.

In a series of press statements, the US, European Union, Sweden and a number of dignitaries, condemned the removal of Khaire, arguing that the actions of parliament are geared towards compromising the ongoing peace talks between the federal government and member states.

But a section of cabinet members led by acting Prime Minister Mahdi Mohamed Guled has termed the sentiments "dangerous" and warned that they amount to total disrespect to Somalia's sovereignty, which should be "respected" all the time.

"The Cabinet meeting also highlighted the SFG's gratitude to the international community but stressed the need for our partners to respect the sovereignty of our nation and our constitution as well as the UN Diplomatic Convention. FGS is committed to Somalia's progress," Gulaid said in a tweet.

Mohamed Abdi Hayir alias Maareye, who serves as the minister for information, warned that the international partners should always confine their sentiments to diplomacy without necessarily interfering with the country's internal politics.

"We welcome the support of the international community, but they must protect the country's sovereignty and the decisions of the constitutional institutions," the minister said, adding that Somalia should always be respected as an independent nation.

In a statement on Monday, the EU said that the removal of Hassan Ali Khaire was a violation of the constitution and eroded their confidence in Somalia. Josep Borrel, the organization's vice president, added that Khaire's removal violated certain parliamentary procedures.

"Regrettably, the developments in the House of the People of Somalia on Saturday represent a setback for Somalia and the confidence of the European Union in the progress of Somalia," read the statement.

"The procedures under which a motion of no confidence in the cabinet was passed did not meet minimal constitutional requirements," he added. The European Union said that it will scrutinize the events and who bears responsibility.

Khaire termed his removal "illegal" but vowed not to take any action for the sake of stability of the country. He did not immediately reveal his plans but there were claims that he's keen to run for the presidency, something which triggered his fallout with President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo.

The borne of contention has been the right model for elections, dates, and representations for both Banadir and Somaliland regions. A technical committee has since been established by both FGS and FMS leaderships which would now recommend a compromise model for timely elections.

International partners had on Tuesday warned that the model must respect the feelings of all stakeholders to avoid possible pre-election conflict in Somalia. The international community is the major financial partner in the ongoing efforts to stabilize Somalia, a country that has been in shambles for almost three decades.

GAROWE ONLINE