UK government has today called on Somali political leaders to come together and reach consensus on implementing the electoral process deal.
In a statement, UK stressed the need for Somali leaders to seal agreement to implement the previous deals on the country’s election process.
“The UK underlines the urgent need for Somali leaders to come together and reach consensus on implementing the electoral process, according to the model agreed on 17 September and the recommendations of the 16 February Baidoa Technical Committee,” the statement issued on Saturday said.
The statement said UK will not support an automatic extension of previous mandates.
“The UK will not support actions that lead to a partial or parallel electoral process, or an automatic extension of previous mandates,” the statement reads in part.
UK’s statement comes barely three days after UN Secretary-General, António Guterres warned that the continued political standoff in Somalia threatens its stability.
“The Secretary-General reiterates his deep concern at the continued political impasse regarding the holding of elections in Somalia, despite several rounds of consultations amongst Somali political actors, both at technical and principal levels,” the global organization said in a statement.
UN said the protracted stalemate carries significant risks for the stability of the country and the welfare of the Somali people, who are already facing a dire humanitarian situation and precarious security conditions.
