Interior Minister sets date for state formation bid in southern Somalia

JOWHAR, Somalia, December 29, 2015 (Garowe Online)-Federal Government of Somalia’s Minister for Internal Affairs Abdirahman Odawa has announced date for forthcoming state formation convention on Tuesday, Garowe Online reports.

Speaking to reporters in Middle Shabelle provincial capital, Jowhar, Odawa said that Hiran-Middle Shabelle bid will kick off with formal conference next week.

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has visited Beledweyne to meet traditional leaders regarding the venue.

Local clan elders initially voiced their opposition to the president’s unilateral decision to cherry pick convention venue without grassroots consultations with all community stakeholders.

Odawa asked Middle Shabelle and Hiran regional administrations to assume responsibility for the timely completion of the fresh endeavor.

If concluded prior to 20^th of February, the incoming president-elect will attend crucial Istanbul conference.

GAROWE ONLINE