​Somalia: Opposition candidates called Federal MPs to tackle Somalia's governance challenges

KAMPALA, UGANDA- Opposition presidential candidates have urged the newly inaugurated Federal MPs to tackle challenges that are facing the country and elect a leader who can deliver governance and development, Garowe Online reports.

In a joint press statement in Kampala, Uganda, Somali Presidential contenders—Abdirahman Mohamed Farole, Sharif Shaikh Ahmed, Abdi Farah Shirdon and Abdinasir Mohamed Abdulle—have welcomed the election of Lower House Speakers and said the new MPs should focus on rebuilding the country and steer clear of personal gains.

They also said that head of institutions and security agencies must remain impartial during the ongoing elections. “We call head of government institutions and national security advisors to be bias-free during the election process in the country,” read the statement.

They jointly warned against external influence in the Somali election and to respect the sovereignty of the country, and stated efforts should be aimed to ensure transparency and credibility of the electoral process.

-Drought’

Somali presidential candidates said the country is facing worsening drought condition and appealed to citizens in Somalia and overseas, regional states, international charities and religious scholars to intensify efforts to help thousands affected families in remote areas and villages.

“We urge Federal government, regional states, businessmen, Somali Diaspora community and international charities to collectively provide immediate assistance and redouble efforts to avert worsening humanitarian situation. We express gratitude to the continuous support from Somali government and request a swift intervention. We also commend the Religious scholars for providing assistance to some drought-stricken areas,” read the statement.      

On the other hand, they expressed concerns to the recent developments in Galmudug region, and urged stakeholders to resolve differences in a manner that conform to the constitution.

Somali election was set to conclude in 2016 but postponed due to delays to meet roadmap deadlines, however, new Federal lawmakers are set to pick the new Somali President later in a date that was not yet scheduled by the Parliament.

GAROWEONLINE