Mogadishu (SD) – UN Under-Secretary-General Amina Mohammed visited Mogadishu yesterday and issued a statement on promoting female participation in the country’s long awaited political process.

“Somalia achieved a milestone at its last elections in 2016/17 with 24 per cent of parliamentary seats filled by women, and I am hopeful that the country will build on this by expanding women’s participation even further – ensuring the 30 per cent quota is met is an important first step to full representation and an inclusive society. The peace dividend will not happen without women,” Ms. Mohammed said.

UN Under-Secretary-General Amina Mohammed met separately with the president and prime minister.

“Prime Minister Roble and other members of the NCC have shown great leadership and commitment to advance women’s political participation, including through specific measures such as decreasing fees for women candidates and appointing Goodwill Ambassadors and Champions to advocate for greater inclusion. It will also be important to agree on a specific mechanism on how exactly the commitment of a minimum 30 per cent quota will be achieved in the upcoming elections,” the Deputy Secretary-General said.

The UN Under-Secretary-General Amina Mohammed also spoke about the general situation in the country, particularly the rift between the President and the PM.

“I have confidence in Somalia’s leadership to de-escalate any tensions and avoid action that could lead to violence and further delay the elections or undermine its credibility,” she added.

Amina Mohamed addressed Ikran Tahlil’s murder case by saying “the rule of law and access to justice are critical to protection from violence and are the right of all women.”

UN Under-Secretary-General Amina J. Mohamed arrives in Somalia amid political rift between President Farmajo and PM Roble.