On the eve of Transition in Somalia, the AU, IGAD and UN together with other members of the international community, including Djibouti, Ethiopia, EU, Italy, Norway, Turkey, UK, US and representatives of the International Observers of the Technical Selection Committee (TSC), are in Mogadishu to reaffirm their support and commitment to the efforts of all involved in the Transitional process. We are in Mogadishu to show support because, finally, this is where the future of Somalia is being decided by Somalis.

The international community welcomes the important progress that Somalia’s leaders and people have made in getting to this stage. Despite significant challenges, the process has ensured: the selection of elders, the convening of the National Constituent Assembly, and the adoption of the Provisional Constitution through a representative and transparent process taking place inside Somalia for the first time in twenty years.

Somalia faces an unprecedented opportunity for greater peace and stability, thanks to the commitment of Somalia’s leaders and the courage, dedication and sacrifice of the Somali National Army and AMISOM.

We urge all the Signatories to sustain their commitment to deliver a peaceful transition on time and in line with the expectations of the UNSC, AU, IGAD and the recent international meetings in London, Istanbul and Rome – that the Signatories should work together and will be held accountable for completing the process which they have agreed.

We believe that conditions exist for Parliament to meet to begin its work and that this could occur as early as 20th August.The vast majority of the members of the new Federal Parliament have now been nominated and vetted by the TSC. We anticipate that the full 275 membership can be achieved quickly, including the fulfillment of the quota for women’s’ representation, and the election of a Speaker and President fulfilled.

We applaud the patriotism, integrity and tireless efforts of the Technical Selection Committee who are charged with vetting the parliamentary nominations and for their courage in ensuring the propriety of the process. We urge and expect all parties to let the TSC complete its task without fear or hindrance.

In some cases, nominees have been rejected by the Technical Selection Committee which is acting in accordance with the Garowe Principles. In this regard, it is crucial that the TSC’s review procedures be respected, including the process for the Elders to reconsider their nominations.

The conclusion of the Transition should mark the beginning of more representative government in Somalia. Whilst Parliament remains a selected rather than elected body, it is essential that it cuts its ties with the past of self-interest and warlordism, and is populated by a new generation of Somali politicians, including the proper representation of Somali women.

Our priority remains simple- to ensure that the people of Somalia are better represented and become the beneficiaries of a renewed political process; a process that has the confidence and strength to deliver an enduring peace, sustainable economic recovery for all and the restoration of credible, legitimate and more accountable government prepared and able to meet the aspirations, hopes, freedoms and human rights of the Somali people.

Hambalyo Hambalyo Hambalyo

( Riix halkaan

) 2012.03.09

Halkaan ka daawo Xalwo Boolimoog Sweden