UN head Swan urges conclusion of senate polls

GOOBJOOG NEWS|MOGADISHU: The United Nations envoy to Somalia James Swan has called on regional governments to expedite the election process for the remaining seats in the Upper House.

“We call on the Federal Member States, which have not yet completed the Upper House elections, to complete them as soon as possible,” said James Swan.

Swan urged the Federal and State Electoral Commissions to now focus on Phase 2 of the elections which involves the election of MPs. He called for the implementation of the exercise in line with the May 27 agreement. He also reiterated the various stakeholders’ commitment in ensuring that funds are available for a seamless election process in Somalia.

“I want to emphasize that all the necessary resources are available, with the help of international partners in Somalia, the funds collected from the candidates and the support of the Federal Government,” said Swan.

The Upper House seats for Somaliland comprise 11 seats and six seats were officially elected yesterday with the remaining five seats set for election today.