Hargeisa (SD) – Representatives of the international community warmly welcomed the election of Representatives and local administration recently concluded in Somaliland.
In a released statement, the representatives of the international community in Somalia declared that Somaliland has fulfilled its promise of elections, the process of political participation and the strengthening of democracy.
“International partners congratulate the people of Somaliland, political parties, the National Electoral Commission and other government institutions on the successful conduct of the 2021 parliamentary and local council elections and on electoral security arrangements. Through these elections, the people of Somaliland have demonstrated a strong commitment to the electoral process, to political participation and to strengthening democracy.” the International Partners said.
The statement from International Partners also welcomed the election of members of the House of Representatives and local councils by members of the marginalized communities, also lamented the declining representation of women, urging the Somaliland administration and parties to ensure the role of women in future elections.
“We welcome in particular the historic election of minority groups to the House of Representatives and the large numbers of youth candidates elected. We recognise the significant achievements of female candidates during this electoral process, but deeply regret that this has not translated to more women in elected office resulting in decreased women political representation. It will be important for all stakeholders to learn from this, and for government, political parties and others to take actions to strengthen women’s political participation well in advance of future elections. We look forward to urgent and concrete steps from the new parliament and the government to ensure a fair representation of women in government and administration.” the International Partners said.
Adding “We remain committed to continuing our constructive cooperation to further democratisation and the inclusion of women and marginalised groups in Somaliland, and to support regular and timely elections at all levels of government. We look forward to strengthening our cooperation with the newly elected local councils and parliament, both on these issues and on other matters of mutual interest.”
The joint statement is from the European Union, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Holland, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.
Categories: Latest News