August 21, 2012 | Morning Headlines.

Main Story

Somali parliament sworn in but presidential election delayed

20 Aug- Source: AFP/Hiiran Online- 744 words

War-torn Somalia’s new parliament was sworn in Monday on the tarmac of the capital’s airport in a ceremony protected by African Union troops, the latest bid to end two decades of conflict. However, the election of a new president was delayed. Lawmakers said the process would begin in a “few days”, with multiple candidates vying in a fierce race to unseat incumbent President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed. The swearing-in, the culmination of a UN-backed process in which lawmakers were chosen by a group of 135 traditional elders, brought an official end to Somalia’s transitional government after eight years of political infighting and rampant corruption.

Key Headlines

Statement of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on the New Federal Parliament (NFP) (UNPOS)
AMISOM urges Somali forces to intensify security (Radio Bar-kulan/Radio Shabelle)
Somalia prepares for first presidential election (Radio Kulmiye)
AMISOM wishes Somalis Eid Mubarak (AMISOM)
Joint Statement by the International Community Partners (UNPOS)
President Sharif pardons over 200 convicts including al Shabaab agents (Garowe)
Somalia presidential poll postponed (Standard)
Al Shabaab arrests 50 Bay and Bakol regions (Radio Bar-kulan)
Al Shabaab leader declares fresh war (Radio Kulmiye)
Somaliland President conveys Message of Peace on the Occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr (Somalilandpress)
Mogadishu enjoys rare treat of a peaceful Eid (Aljazeera)
Uganda ready to send more helicopters to Somalia (New Vision)
Somali president hits back against U.N. graft charges (Reuters)

PRESS STATEMENT

Statement of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General on the New Federal Parliament (NFP)

20 Aug- Source: UNPOS- 412 words

The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia, Dr. Augustine P. Mahiga, offers his warmest congratulations on the remarkable occasion of the inauguration of the new Somali Federal Parliament. He pays tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Traditional Elders for identifying the candidates, the Technical Selection Committee (TSC) for diligently vetting the candidates and to all the Somali people at this moment of hope, optimism and progress. The SRSG also commends the work of the international observers to the TSC for their determination and diligence in assisting the Committee in carrying out its functions.

Some 215 of the total number of 275 Members of Parliament were sworn in, comfortably passing the benchmark of 185 which allows for the New Federal Parliament to convene with a functioning majority. The inauguration ceremony, held at the Mogadishu International Airport, was attended by the President, the Prime Minister and the current Speaker of Parliament. Mr. Mussa Hassan Abdulle, a former army general was appointed interim Speaker of the NFP.

“This historic moment marks the long-awaited end of the transitional period in Somalia. The new MPs, selected after broad-based, grass roots consultations and representing all of Somalia’s clans, have been successfully screened against objective criteria and are now ready to start their important work,” SRSG Mahiga stated.

Careful selection resulted in high number of university graduates, relevant professional experience and a significant number of women although, the agreed upon quota of 30% was not reached.

“Today’s events are the culmination of over 12 months of arduous and contentious political negotiations and mark the beginning of the last phase of the transition which will be completed in the coming days with the appointment of a Speaker, Deputy Speaker and a President.”

The SRSG also takes the opportunity to thank the international partners, including the US, the UK, the EU, Italy and Norway, who visited Mogadishu yesterday to express their solidarity and support at this pivotal moment in the Somali peace process. He recognizes and appreciates the attendance of the Mogadishu-based diplomatic community, mostly from the region, who also participated in the meeting.

“Somalia has suffered through two decades of brutal civil war. Today’s swearing in of a new, more qualified legislature marks a turning point for the nation. The Somali people have met the key 20 August deadline of the Roadmap on ending the transitional period and showed their courage and determination in moving forward on the road to peace and stability,” SRSG Mahiga said.

Joint Statement by the International Community Partners

19 Aug- Source: UNPOS- 517 words

On the eve of Transition in Somalia, the AU, IGAD and UN together with other members of the international community, including Djibouti, Ethiopia, EU, Italy, Norway, Turkey, UK, US and representatives of the International Observers of the Technical Selection Committee (TSC), are in Mogadishu to reaffirm their support and commitment to the efforts of all involved in the Transitional process. We are in Mogadishu to show support because, finally, this is where the future of Somalia is being decided by Somalis.

The international community welcomes the important progress that Somalia’s leaders and people have made in getting to this stage. Despite significant challenges, the process has ensured: the selection of elders, the convening of the National Constituent Assembly, and the adoption of the Provisional Constitution through a representative and transparent process taking place inside Somalia for the first time in twenty years.

Somalia faces an unprecedented opportunity for greater peace and stability, thanks to the commitment of Somalia’s leaders and the courage, dedication and sacrifice of the Somali National Army and AMISOM.

We urge all the Signatories to sustain their commitment to deliver a peaceful transition on time and in line with the expectations of the UNSC, AU, IGAD and the recent international meetings in London, Istanbul and Rome – that the Signatories should work together and will be held accountable for completing the process which they have agreed.

We believe that conditions exist for Parliament to meet to begin its work and that this could occur as early as 20th August. The vast majority of the members of the new Federal Parliament have now been nominated and vetted by the TSC. We anticipate that the full 275 membership can be achieved quickly, including the fulfillment of the quota for women’s’ representation, and the election of a Speaker and President fulfilled.

We applaud the patriotism, integrity and tireless efforts of the Technical Selection Committee who are charged with vetting the parliamentary nominations and for their courage in ensuring the propriety of the process. We urge and expect all parties to let the TSC complete its task without fear or hindrance.

In some cases, nominees have been rejected by the Technical Selection Committee which is acting in accordance with the Garowe Principles. In this regard, it is crucial that the TSC’s review procedures be respected, including the process for the Elders to reconsider their nominations.

The conclusion of the Transition should mark the beginning of more representative government in Somalia. Whilst Parliament remains a selected rather than elected body, it is essential that it cuts its ties with the past of self-interest and warlordism, and is populated by a new generation of Somali politicians, including the proper representation of Somali women.

Our priority remains simple – to ensure that the people of Somalia are better represented and become the beneficiaries of a renewed political process; a process that has the confidence and strength to deliver an enduring peace, sustainable economic recovery for all and the restoration of credible, legitimate and more accountable government prepared and able to meet the aspirations, hopes, freedoms and human rights of the Somali people.

AMISOM wishes Somalis Eid Mubarak

17 Aug – Source: AMISOM – 197 words

As Muslims all over the world mark Eid ul â€ Fitr, the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (SRCC) for Somalia, Ambassador Boubacar Diarra sends his best wishes to the people of Somalia on this special occasion.

“This year’s Eid ulâ€ Fitr comes at a significant period in Somalia’s history as the country recently passed a constitution that ends 12 years of transitional governments and is preparing to usher in a new government after decades of chaos” he said.

Ambassador Diarra also sent his best wishes to all his fellow Muslims from across the African continent serving under the AU Mission to Somalia, and lauded their commitment to helping their Somali brothers and sisters. “Your hard work and sacrifice have given Somalia the best chance it has had in decades to achieve peace and stability,” he said.

Ambassador Diarra said that AMISOM would continue to work with Somalia’s next government which will be formed following elections for President slated for later this month. Three weeks ago, a National Constituent Assembly adopted a new constitution for the country, paving the way for ending the 12â€ year transition to more permanent and representative political order.

SOMALI MEDIA

AMISOM urges Somali forces to intensify security

20 Aug- Source: Radio Bar-kulan/Radio Shabelle- 129 words

African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) force commander, Lt. General Andrew Gutti, has appealed to Somalia’s armed forces to continue with their operations aimed at strengthening security in Mogadishu. Gutti said his forces too will put in place relevant security measures ahead of the upcoming presidential election scheduled for the next few days. Speaking at a meeting in Mogadishu’s presidential palace mid last night, Gutti said the forces should not allow disruption of the ongoing measures aimed at bolstering security in the entire city.During the meeting participants deliberated ways to intensify security in the city.Gen. Gutti said it is the responsibility of the armed forces to secure the city during this time of heightened political tensions in Mogadishu as leaders seek to end the current eight-years old transitional period.

President Sharif pardons over 200 convicts including al Shabaab agents

20 Aug – Source: Garowe Online – 126 words

Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed pardoned over 200 convicts some of whom were al Shabaab agents including foreign fighters, a day before the new Somali parliament is sworn in, Garowe Online reports. The former Transitional Federal Government (TFG) President Sharif released the 219 convicts on the holy day for Muslims Eid. The Minister for Religious Affairs Ahmed Hassan Gaboobe stated that these people were pardoned to commemorate the holy day of celebration. “We released the inmates in celebration of Eid. These convicts were jailed after being convicted of minor crimes,” said Minister Gabobe.

Somalia prepares for first presidential election

20 Aug- Source: Radio Kulmiye- 62 words

Somalia is set to elect new president and mark the end of transition period. After eight years under the UN-backed Transitional federal Government, elections will be held to end the transition rule and install government. There is heavy security with troops and policemen patrolling the streets of Somalia’s capital, Mogadishu.

Somali president urges independence of elders in selecting MPs

20 Aug- Source: Radio Shabelle-129 words

Somalia’s interim president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has called for the independence of the traditional elders in selecting the new members of parliament. The president, who was addressing the media in Mogadishu, said it was necessary to observe the agreements reached in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and Nairobi, Kenya, regarding giving the elders the freedom to select new MPs. President Sharif referred to the issue of security, saying it was imperative that the country should not be steered towards chaos and confusion. He stressed that al Shabab should not be given any opportunity that they might exploit.

Al Shabaab arrests 50 Bay and Bakol regions

20 Aug- Source: Radio Bar-kulan- 60 words

Al Shabaab militants in Bay and Bakol regions have reportedly detained fifty people in Dinsor, Bur-Hakaba and Wajid districts for allegedly breaching Zakat collection codes.The militant group accused the people of distributing their Zakat to needy families without passing through the area rebel administrations.Ten people were arrested in Dinsor, 10 in Bur-Hakaba while the remaining 15 were arrested in Wajid town.

Banadir Governor calls on residents to collaborate with TFG forces on Security

20 Aug- Source: Radio Mustaqbal- 112 words

The Governor of Banadir regional Administration, who is also the Mayor of Mogadishu Mohamud Ahmed Nor Tarsan urged residents in the capital to assist the forces in the ensuring peace. He was speaking after hosting Eidul Fidral festival for some internally displaced people. Tarsan said the returnees and other residents in Mogadishu should support the government security forces and AMISOM in restoring peace, stability and order in Mogadishu.

Grenade attack in Somali capital as MPs scheduled to meet

20 Aug- Source: Radio Shabelle- 133 words

At least four people were wounded, some of them seriously in a hand grenade attack taht took place in Somalia’s seaside capital Mogadishu on Sunday night, witnesses said. “Two young boys hurled grenades at Somali government troops stationed at Bar Ubax junction army base. Four people, two women and two boys have been injured in the attack,” said a witness, who asked not to be named. The wounded civilians were immediately rushed to a hospital in Mogadishu for medical treatment by the local ambulance services last night. No group claimed responsibility for the attack, but al Shabaab militants have in the past attacked the African Union mission in Somalia (AMISOM) and TFG forces.

Puntland President join Eid celebrations at Garowe stadium

20 Aug – Source: Garowe Online – 69 words

The president of Somalia’s Puntland state addressed Muslim congregants at a football stadium in the capital Garowe on Sunday, marking Eid celebrations and the end of Islamic blessed fasting month of Ramadan, Garowe Online reports. Puntland President Abdirahman Mohamed Farole addressed an estimated over 15,000 congregants at Mire Awaare Stadium in Garowe, expressing his happiness on Eid day and addressing key issues concerning Puntland and Somalia more generally.

Al Shabaab leader declares fresh war

20 Aug- Source: Radio Kulmiye- 95 words

Hassan Dahir Aways, one of the top al Shabaab leaders appealed for fresh battle against TFG solders and AMISOM and encouraged al Shabaab militants to fight in order to regain the control of the land they lost. Aways, who was giving a speech at an Eid celebration in Barawe in lower shabelle regio, urged the residents to participate in what he called ‘JIHAD’ against AMISOM forces and TFG troops. He added that al Shabaab will fulfill the pledge they made to the Somali peoples which include re-capture territories from the allied forces of TFG and AMISOM.

AMISOM and TFG troops Parade in Mogadishu

18 Aug- Source: Radio Risaala- 68 words

Somali police and the African Union Peacekeepers Friday paraded in Mogadishu in a show of power. Various police officers and armored vehicles passed through all the major roads in Mogadishu including Makah al-Mukaramah.After the exercise, AMISOM and TFG senior commanders jointly briefed the press.AMISOM spokesman, Charles Mkon assured the public that they have the capability to protect the Somali citizens and provide secure environment for them.

Al Shabaab trains new fighters

18 Aug- Source: Radio Kulmiye- 73 words

Al Shabaab trains hundreds of fighters in Somalia’s Hiiraan region. Residents told radio Kulmiye that they have seen hundreds of fighters recently trained by al Shabaab. The new trainees will reportedly wage war in the region, according to sources in the area. Al Shabaab had fled from the region last year but still trying to regain positions in the region. Government troops and Djiboutian troops from AMISOM are operating in the region.

Somaliland President conveys Message of Peace on the Occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr

19 Aug – Source: Somaliland Press – 78 words

Somaliland president Ahmed Mahmoud Silanyo has sent a cable extending his personal wishes of good tidings and heartfelt felicitation to the people of Somaliland and those in the diaspora and the whole Muslim world on the occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr. The president in his message said, while sharing the joy and happiness with Somaliland people on this festive occasion I pray to Allah almighty to reward all Muslims for their prays during the holy month of Ramadan.

REGIONAL MEDIA

Somalia presidential poll postponed

20 Aug- Source: Standard- 369 words

The Presidential poll expected to take place in Somalia has been postponed and a new date is expected to be announced on Monday evening.“The election has been postponed and we expect it will be held in about two weeks. A definite date will be communicated later today, “Mr Godah Barre, the outgoing Planning and International Cooperation Minister said on telephone from Mogadishu.

Mogadishu enjoys rare treat of a peaceful Eid

19 Aug- Source: Aljazeera- 354 words

There haven’t been many peaceful Eids in Somalia, and in many parts of the country fighting between the armed group al Shabaab and African Union (AU) forces means many Somalis won’t be celebrating. Things are different in Mogadishu. The capital is enjoying its most peaceful period in years.The Isbahaysiga Mosque is located on a hillside just opposite the parliament.Last year, fighting in the city between al Shabaab and AU forces made Eid prayers here very dangerous.

Uganda ready to send more helicopters to Somalia

17 Aug- Source: New Vision- 558 words

Uganda is willing to send another set of combat helicopters to fight the al Shabaab militants in Somalia despite the setback it suffered when three aircraft crashed in Kenya last Sunday. Gen. Jeje Odongo, the state minister for defence, said discussions were ongoing between the Government, UN and AU on whether Uganda can send other helicopters. “If we get a green light, we will send more equipment,” Odongo told reporters during an interview at the Air base in Entebbe Friday.

Former UNICEF official confident of clinching Somalia presidency

19 Aug- Source: Capital News- 307 words

A former UNICEF employee Hassan Sheikh Mahamud has joined the growing list of presidential candidates in Somalia. Mahamud said he is confident of being elected President of Somalia. “I have massive support from the leaders, and I am hopeful of being elected to serve the people of Somalia,” the 57-year-old candidate who founded the Peace and Development party (PDP) said.“My party is going to advocate for the rights of the people of Somalia to ensure they do not remain refugees forever,” he added.

Final Somali battle and impact of crashed choppers on plan

19 Aug- Source: Daily Monitor- 775 words

Military and the African Union officials from the five countries involved in the Somalia war were yesterday expected to hold meetings in preparation for the final assault on the insurgent stronghold of Kismayu, in southern Somalia. The massive build-up of troops, the escalating probing attacks to test al Shabaab defences as well as increased aerial operations are all indications of a looming large offensive. A Somali source well informed on developments in the Jubba Valley told our sister paper, the Daily Nation, that many influential local actors in the region believe the attack will be launched later this week.

Kenya warns Somalia detractors of sanctions

17 Aug- Source: Capital News/Daily Nation- 514 words

The Government of Kenya has warned it will impose punitive sanctions against those it calls ‘potential spoilers’ of the Somali political process.
In a statement, President Mwai Kibaki warned any individuals or groups in and out of Somalia trying to jeopardize the roadmap for ending the Transition in Somalia risk immediate imposition of specific measures and restrictions which are spelt out in Resolutions of the Africa Union, United Nations and Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

INTERNATIONAL MEDIA

Somali parliament sworn in but presidential election delayed

20 Aug- Source: AFP- 744 words

Somali president hits back against U.N. graft charges

17 Aug- Source: Reuters- 513 words

Somalia’s president dismissed a U.N. report that accused senior leaders of corruption and defended his record as he campaigned for re-election in a landmark vote.Sheikh Sharif Ahmed, who took over as head of a Western-backed transitional government in 2009, also promised he would step down if he lost – in an apparent answer to some critics who are concerned he could be planning to cling on to power.

SOCIAL MEDIA

“The conforming approach for helping Somalia’s classical failed syndrome does not work without pre-disarmament and genuine reconciliation. Healing Somalia requires a comprehensive long-term strategy; not a quick fix. Obviously, a wrong prescription of political reform, with little thought of its cumulative consequences, was given to Somalia by the international community.”

SOMALIA’s 2012 Election & Security Process Assessments

19 Aug- Source: Hiiraan Online-830 Words

Somalia’s upcoming permanent government is supposed to be a model for national reconciliation and good governance; the so called signatories, largely made up of former militia members, intellectual Diasporas, and members of Puntland and Galmudug states. Instead, these corrupt leaders have been quick to set aside their differences in favor of future power sharing, where the bitter pill of sovereignty is bypassed, and the result is mere legal fiction. Apparently, doing so helps them to strategize in how to share the potential spoils in post-transitional government, and on signing away the country’s future, in return for personal financial gain.

“The state’s authority may be further undermined by a complicated federal system of governance in the constitution, and which critics feel may further fragment Somali society.Not everyone, however, is pessimistic about Somalia’s future. Thousands of Somalis in the diaspora are heading back to Mogadishu and other cities to rebuild their homes and start new businesses. The entrepreneurial Somali spirit will see to it that Somalia is up and running again — with or without a strong and effective government.”

The Somali spirit will triumph, with or without an effective government

20 Aug- Source: Daily Nation-685 Words

This week Somalis have a reason to celebrate as a new government assumes office to see the country through the post-transition political process. Somalia has not had a proper government for 21 years; the transitional government that was established in 2004 has been unable to govern the country due to insecurity and has been mired in controversy and internal wrangles.