FNP coalition welcomes Dhusamareb deal, urge inclusion of stakeholders

A section of political parties in Somalia have welcomed the political agreements in Dhusamareb which propose a compromise electoral model but called for broad-based consultations and clarity on the final document.

The Forum for National Parties (FNP) coalition called the agreement ‘one step forward’ but noted the inclusion of more stakeholders and the input of Jubbaland and Puntland was imperative.

Jubbaland and Puntland both of which did not take part in the Dhusamareb talks poured cold water on the agreement terming a ‘personal opinion’.

“It is important and necessary to convince Puntland and Jubbaland to participate in any way possible,” FNP said. The coalition headed by former presidents Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Sharif Sheikh Ahmed also called for differences between the Lower and Upper Houses of Parliament to be resolved before the final document is presented to them for approval.

The coalition which brings together six political parties said a technical committee comprising of political parties and civil society groups should be formed to oversee the elections.

The FNP said it will soon issue an official statement on the implementation of the Dhusamareb agreement.