Mogadishu (SD) – Somalia’s international partners have today issued an statement welcoming the appointment of Puntland and Jubaland members to the National Electoral Commission.

“International partners welcome the nomination of State-level Electoral Implementation Teams for Jubaland and Puntland, presented on 27 January. While overdue, this positive step can help to create conditions for the rapid implementation of the 17 September electoral model in an inclusive and consensual manner.” Said the statement.

Somalia’s international partners also welcomed the conference called by the two regional administrations to convene this month.

“International partners fully endorse the proposal to urgently convene a meeting between the Federal Government and Federal Member State leaders, to resolve the remaining electoral implementation issues in order for credible and inclusive elections to proceed.”

Somalia’s international partners have also reiterated their support for fair and free elections in Somalia.

“The partners call for a single agreed electoral process – without parallel or partial alternatives – that will be conducted peacefully with protection of political space and media freedom, guarantees the 30 per cent women’s quota, and results in a credible and inclusive outcome that serves the national interest.” Said the statement.

The International partners concluded “ Holding timely, credible elections is a vital element of the partnership between Somalia and the international community. International partners urge all Somali leaders to make fair compromises necessary to ensure credible elections.”

Parliamentary elections have been postponed several times due to inconsistencies in the country’s electoral system.