Opposition, FUD lends weight to impeachment, calls president to resign

The opposition group, Forum for Unity and Democracy, FUD has thrown its weight behind the move to unseat President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud through an impeachment motion.

The lawmakers have called on the Speaker and the Chief Justice to pave way for the motion to be debated in parliament noting that as MPs, they have the constitutional responsibility to hold the President accountable.

“In order to entrench a democratic culture, it is imperative that all voices of the representatives of the people be heard and respected, and the Constitution be upheld and protected,” said FUD in a statement.

The lawmakers have once again accused the president of violation of the constitutional by undermining the integrity and independence of national institutions and facilitating patronage and pillage of public resources.

Vision 2016

On the constitutional review process and the realization of Vision 2016, which sets the framework for elections, FUD has castigated the president for what they term as lack of inclusivity of the national stakeholders in major political processes.

“The constitutional review process leading up to the referendum and elections in 2016 constitute major political milestones articulated in the Provisional Constitution. It is an inalienable right of Somali citizens to adopt their Constitution and elect their political representatives and leaders. This right cannot and should not be denied by the vested interests of the President,” read the statement in part.

The president announced earlier this month a one person one vote would not be possible in 2016 given the lack of preparedness and security situation in the country.

However, President Mohamud has dismissed any calls for his resignation or removal from office through a parliamentary process saying that the attempts were riddled with selfish interests and political maneuvers.

President Mohamud told the MPs in statement Thursday to drop their bid and concentrate in nation building as there was need for a united front towards confronting challenges the nation is facing.

Resign

But FUD is now pushing its position impressing upon the president not to interfere with the impeachment process. The MPs have asked the president to resign and ‘save the nation from political dissolution and state collapse’.

“We appeal to the President to allow the democratic process to unfold within the constitutional framework. Any attempt to tamper or corrupt this process will be perilous and will undermine the political stability and unity of our nation,” urged FUD.

Speaker Mohamed Osman Jowari yesterday confirmed receipt of the motion and said he would issue further directions on when it will be tabled in the House for debate.