Hiiraan Online
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Anne Demirjian, the United Nations' director for political and mediation group for Somalia
MOGADISHU (HOL) -- With the Somali prime minister's new cabinet picks face mounting pressure from the parliament which opposes certain ministers in his cabinet, the United Nations has urged Somali legislators to endorse the female ministers in the cabinet which will be voted on Monday.
In a letter addressed to the speaker of the parliament on Wednesday, Anne Demirjian, the United Nations' director for political and mediation group for Somalia has noted that certain groups in the
parliament are opposing the nomination of women into the cabinet.
"This is very disconcerting and would not be utilizing Somali human capital to its fullest. "She said in the letter seen by HOL.
In Somalia, women often complain of discriminations and challenges in political participation in a male-dominated political circle.
In the new cabinet, three female ministers were appointed for key ministries, including health, women and human rights, family affairs and education.
The UN's call comes as the Somali prime is expected to present his cabinet to the parliament on Monday, few days after legislators voted in favor his request of 10-days to submit his cabinet list to the legislative house.