AU Special Representative Welcomes the Appointment of Mr. Omar Abdirashid Ali Sharmarke as Somalia’s Prime Minister

The Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Ambassador Maman S. Sidikou has welcomed the appointment of Mr. Omar Abdirashid Sharmarke as Somalia’s new Prime Minister, replacing Mr. Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed.

Mr. Sharmarke’s appointment was announced yesterday, 17 December, 2014 by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud. Mr. Sharmake’s appointment has to be endorsed by the Federal Parliament after which he is expected to appoint his cabinet of ministers in consultation with the President.

Ambassador Sidikou notes that the appointment of Mr. Sharmarke is another positive step forward for Somalia and further demonstrates effectiveness of the country’s institutions in meeting their constitutional responsibilities.

He also notes that Mr. Sharmarke comes on board with a wealth of experience drawn from his previous term as Prime Minister between 2009 and 2010 as well as his international public service experiences in the United Nations and the African Union.