UN welcomes President Hassan Sheikh’s invitation to Political stakeholders for dialogue

The United Nations has welcomed Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s invitation to political stakeholders to engage in dialogue, describing the initiative as an opportunity to advance political discussions amid continuing debates over the country’s electoral process.

Raisedon Zenenga, Officer-in-Charge of the United Nations Transitional Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNTMIS), made the remarks as Somalia and the United Nations marked the conclusion of the mission’s mandate at a ceremony in Mogadishu on Monday.

“We welcome from the UN side the public invitation extended to political stakeholders last night by His Excellency the President to dialogue,” Zenenga said.

President Hassan Sheikh extended the invitation during a televised address in which he defended his government’s push for direct elections and reaffirmed its willingness to engage political actors holding different views on national issues.

The president said the government was ready to listen to recommendations and discuss matters of national importance. He also announced plans to formally invite political stakeholders to a dialogue forum, with official invitations to be conveyed through the appropriate channels.

The invitation comes amid ongoing political debate over Somalia’s electoral roadmap and the implementation of one-person, one-vote elections.

The UN’s response signals its support for efforts to bring political stakeholders together for discussions, although details of the proposed forum, including its timing, format and participants, have yet to be announced.

Zenenga made the remarks during an event marking the end of UNTMIS, which is scheduled to formally conclude its operations on October 31.

The United Nations has reiterated the importance of inclusive political dialogue and reconciliation as Somalia continues efforts to strengthen its institutions and advance its political transition.

Mustaqbal