Security Council encourages Somali political leaders to work together, establish inclusive Government
5 February 2015 – Concerned by the ongoing political crisis in Somalia and its negative effect on delivery of progress for the Somali people, the United Nations Security Council today encouraged greater efforts from the country’s political leadership – including the President, Prime Minister and Parliament – to work together to quickly establish an inclusive, representative Government.
In a statement issued to the press, the Council also expressed concern that the ongoing political crisis is impacting peace and security in the long troubled country. Recalling its press statement of 10 December, which stressed that swift and sustained restoration of political stability is vital, the Council encouraged greater efforts from all Somalia’s political leadership “to work together to establish quickly an inclusive and representative Government.”
Today’s statement follows a briefing to the 15-member body yesterday by Special Representative for Somalia, Nicholas Kay, and the Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Ambassador Maman Sidikou (via video-conference from Mogadishu).
Underlining the importance of the partnership between the African Union and the UN in Somalia, which he called “unique, strong and essential for success,” Mr. Kay said that 2015 will be decisive in whether and how Somalia can become a unified, peaceful and federal State. Expressing both excitement and worry over risks on the horizon, he said: “Delays and setbacks will have an even greater impact this year than last.”
Further to today’s statement, Council members urged the new Government, once formed, to accelerate delivery of the milestones of the Federal Government’s ‘Vision 2016’ and, in this context, stressed the importance of establishing the National Independent Electoral Commission without further delay.
The members of the Security Council also underscored their determination to continue to support all international efforts aimed at ending the threat posed by Al-Shabaab, and creating a conducive atmosphere for peace building and sustainable development in Somalia.
The members of the Security Council underlined their resolute support for the peace and reconciliation process in Somalia. They also recalled their significant support to the people and Federal Government of Somalia, in a sustained and integrated approach, including through the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) and through UN support to the African Union Mission there known as AMISOM.
