Brussels, 11/09/2012 (Agence Europe) - The European Union welcomes the election of Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud as President of Somalia as a historic event which brings hope for the future of the country. For more than 20 years this country in the Horn of Africa has remained without a real State. But while assuring the new leaders of its support, the EU stresses the road that must be followed for the end of transition to mark the beginning of a new era of reconciliation, stability and prosperity (see EUROPE 10676).
In a statement published on Monday 10 September, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton put it this way: “The European Union congratulates Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud on his election as the new President of Somalia. Today is a significant day in the history of Somalia. Eight years on from the establishment of transitional federal institutions, the transition has ended with the election of the president by the new federal Parliament. The EU welcomes the prospects this occasion brings to Somalia for lasting peace, prosperity and stability to the millions of people who have suffered from a protracted conflict over the years. The adoption of a new provisional constitution in particular marks the beginning of a new, democratic era in Somalia. There is now much work to be done. The new federal institutions must finalise key pending elements of the provisional constitution and embark on stabilisation efforts in all accessible areas in the country, both crucial for the future of a viable federal Somalia.”
Reiterating the importance that the EU attaches to the Somali people being guaranteed “good governance, transparency and accountability, justice and respect of their rights and fundamental freedoms, including freedom of worship”, Ashton added that reconciliation and development are two priorities. “The EU urges the Somali leadership to embark on this process, acting with integrity and in the interests of the Somali people”, Ashton said. She repeats her call for the quick formation of the government.
An academic who has never exercised power, Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud won a crushing victory (70% of votes) on Monday in the second round of the general election - to general surprise. He stood against candidates with much experience in politics. (AN/transl.fl)