The UN Special Representative for Somalia James Swan said the country, along with its international partners and friends, wanted to see the progress achieved over the past decade consolidated in 2020. Addressing the Security Council today (21 Nov), Swan said the country has been building state institutions, achieving military gains against al Shabaab, and enhancing economic growth.
He stressed the importance of political consensus, especially ahead of next year’s elections, as well as the adoption of an amended Federal Constitution to address the threat posed by al Shabaab, and as well as address economic development.
The Special Representative stressed, however, that after more than a year without “effective cooperation between the Central Government and key Federal Member States, this situation has become an obstacle to achieving important national priorities.” He added, “Somalia’s leaders must act urgently to break this stalemate between the Center and the Federal Member States in the interest of the nation.”
Swan underscored the need to forge a broad political consensus on the electoral system for 2020 and welcomed yesterday’s meeting between President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmajo and his two predecessors.
SOUNDBITE (English) James Swan, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia, United Nations:
“As the election approaches, I call on authorities at all levels of government to ensure that political space is preserved. Citizens must have the right to speak out, to access media, to organize and meet, and to travel to engage fellow Somalis throughout the country. At the same time, | call on all political leaders to act with responsibility, to eschew violence, and to protect the integrity of national institutions.”
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