Hiiraan Online
Sunday, May 10, 2015
MOGADISHU (HOL) ----Facing domestic opposition and international pressure, Somalia's president guaranteed he would not seek a term extension, assuring a timely election in the country after his term expires in August next year.
His remarks come after the United Nations envoy to Somalia Nicholas Kay warned Somalia's incumbent leaders of alleged term extension bid, stressing that the international community would not accept any term extension after August next year.
"I shall never seek any term extension." Hassan Sheikh Mohamud said on a teleconference he hosted to listen the mainstream views of his fellow Somalis.
During the two hours teleconference, he urged Somalis to work with his government to restore peace and order in one of the world's most dangerous countries.
Mr. Mohamud whose government is credited with diplomatic progress for the impoverished nation may run for a second term election in 2016.
His predecessor Sheikh Sharif Ahmed who's currently studying at the Oxford University is also reported to be planning to make a political comeback and run for presidency once again in the approaching election which is expected to be a tough race between key political players.
It's the first time Somalia's president has publicly declared he would not seek any term extension.
However, political experts were quick to point out early loopholes that may encumber the preparation for the upcoming election in Somalia.
"What puzzles many Somalis including myself is the talk about political election in August 2016 when the review of the Provisional Constitution which is one of many preconditions for political election
has yet to be put in words, debated and passed by legitimate stakeholders for national referendum," said Mohamed M. Uluso, a veteran Somali politics expert as well as a regular HOL OP-ed contributor in a recent opinion.
"Other preconditions yet to be considered include well-publicized laws, well-established institutions and well organized preparation before attempting to embark on national election that embodies the
concept of political representation." He added.
In April 2013, Mohamud was named to the Time 100, TIME magazine's annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world. His efforts in advancing national reconciliation, anti-corruption
measures, and socio-economic and security sector reforms in Somalia were cited as reasons for the selection at the time. However very little has so far been accomplished as the end of his term is fast approaching.
You can listen the full teleconference by dialing +1 805-399-1299 - Access Code ---607915