UN envoy encourages Somali parties to ‘get it right’ in forming new government

The top United Nations envoy for Somalia today voiced his hope that talks in Djibouti aimed at forming a unity government will succeed and bring stability to the strife-torn nation that has not had a functioning central government since 1991.

“This is a key moment for Somalia and it is extremely important to get it right, after almost two decades of violence,” said the Secretary-General’s Special Representative, Ahmedou Ould-Abdallah, as the High-level Committee, comprising delegates from the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) and the Alliance for the Re-Liberation of Somalia (ARS), continue discussions.

“The Committee members are working responsibly to ensure there is a fair process which should lead to the election of a new head of State,” he added.

Violence has continued in Somalia in recent months despite the signing in June 2008 of the UN-facilitated Djibouti Agreement by the TFG and the ARS, in which they agreed to end their conflict.

Last October, both parties greed on the outline of forming a Government of National Unity and enlarging the Parliament and the principles were endorsed by the Transitional Federal Parliament.

“I will be in Djibouti shortly to discuss the final arrangements with all Somali delegates, leaders and their friends,” said Mr. Ould-Abdallah. “I would like to thank the TFG, ARS and all Somalis for their patience at this critical time. This is a delicate process. All participants are confident that it will succeed and help bring more stability to Somalia.”