President Farmaajo asks Parliament to approve new cabinet as MPs fault line up

President Farmaajo addressing the media at a past function. Farmaajo asked Parliament Sunday to endorse the new cabinet despite opposition from more than 100 lawmakers regarding the legitimacy of the list. File Photo: Villa Somalia

President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has urged parliament to approve the newly appointed cabinet by Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire.

Farmaajo called on the lawmaker not oppose the new government saying that he has confidence in the individuals named for the portfolios.

“I urge the parliament not to stand against the newly appointed cabinet before we come to know who is incompetent,” President Farmaajo told a media briefing Sunday night.

The President’s plea comes after over hundred Somali lawmakers submitted petition calling for cabinet review.

On Saturday, House Speaker Mohamed Osman Jawari warned the cabinet lineup could be rejected if it is not changed to allow more power-sharing and to meet constitutional provisions.

The new cabinet which was formed this month comprises of a number of former minister and diplomats.

Among the new ministers is the former chairman of Somali presidential electoral body, Abdirahman Bayle and Somalia’s current ambassador to United Nations.

The prime minister is expected to present his proposed cabinet to parliament for approval soon.