Somalia President congratulates Djibouti as Guelleh cements power

MOGADISHU, Somalia-Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has congratulated his counterpart, Djiboutian strongman leader Ismael Omar Guelleh on convincing victory in Friday presidential election, Garowe Online reports. 

Guelleh has won expected sweeping election victory with 61 percent turnout for fourth time since coming to power in 1999.  “My brother, President Guelleh, I congratulate you for the victory you secured in presidential elections held by Friday. 

This vote triumph shows the confidence by your people in you, and your progressive determinacy for earning Djibouti a big name at global stage,” Mohamud said in a statement from his office.   

During his three-term rule, Guelleh, 68, ran on a record of economic growth in a country of a million people that hosts military bases for the United States, Japan and France.   

President Mohamud praised Djiboutian politicians for democratic maturity which could help the country move forward.   

“I firmly confirm to you that Somali people stand by you every time,” he added.  

Praying to Allah for him to have burden eased, President Mohamud went at length about Djibouti’s unwavering support for Somalia at difficult moments.  

Djiboutian contingents serve with the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) in the battle against Al Shabaab insurgents in central and southern Somalia.  

In December 2015, victorious Guelleh unveiled his bid to stay at helm for another five-year term, drawing the ire of hapless opposition.

GAROWEONLINE