Mogadishu (SD) – The US and British embassies in Mogadishu announced their support for the National Consultative Conference called by Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble, expected to take place in Mogadishu this week.

A statement posted on Twitter by the US State Department said, “The United States supports the call for an in-person National Consultative Council meeting this week focused on improving and expediting Somalia’s electoral process. The United States is deeply concerned by the continuing delays and by the procedural irregularities that have undermined the credibility of the process.”

Adding “It is imperative that Somalia’s national and Federal Member State leaders swiftly conclude credible, transparent, and inclusive parliamentary and presidential elections and address concerns in an open and acceptable manner. The United States remains committed to supporting peace and stability in Somalia and will use available tools to meet those goals.”

UK Minister for Africa, Vicky Ford has also called on Somalia leaders to conclude the country’s long awaited elections.

“The UK is deeply concerned by the political situation in Somalia. Somalia stands at a critical juncture. For the sake of Somalia’s stability and security, it is vital Somalia’s leaders conclude the electoral process as soon as possible in a way that ensures the confidence of the Somali people in its outcome.” Minister for Africa, Vicky Ford said.

Adding “We urge all Somalia’s leaders to attend the NCC meeting and to engage constructively in these talks. We remain supportive of any process that respects the 17 September 2020 and 27 May 2021 agreements and leads to consensus on a way forward.”

The statement come at a time when President Farmajo Suspended PM Roble and called for a consultative meeting of his own.

The United States and the United Kingdom, which provide significant support to Somalia, have not yet commented on the political rivalry between the two leaders.