WardheerNews (WDN) The former Somali presidential candidate and high ranking member of Islah organization  Dr. Abdurahman M. Baadiyow in an exclusive interview with WardheerNews shared his opinion on a number of wide issues facing Somalia. On the current political situation Mr. Baadiyow stated “After initial high expectations, the current political situation in Somalia has a propensity for tumultuous scenarios and profound societal disappointment. For example, security is deteriorating, the economy is waddling and Jubaland project is biting hard.

Moreover, the government and the parliament are already behind schedule in implementing major tasks according to the constitutional provisions. For instance, the government should propose and the parliament should establish numerous commissions in specific timeframes. According to article 135 of the constitution, the government should establish Judicial Service and Truth and Reconciliation Commissions in 30 days, Human rights, Ombudsman, National Security and civilian oversight commissions in 45 days; and Constitutional Court in 60 days. On the other hand, even though it is a bit too early to pass a fair judgment on the performance of the government, nevertheless, it seems that public support is dwindling, frustration and desperation are growing.”

On moving Somalia forward, out of the current stalemate, Dr. Baadiyow said “My personal take is that three major conditions must be fulfilled to improve the performance of the current regime and to restore its credibility:

1. The president  should be advised, and, perhaps also pressured, to be accountable to abide by the constitution and to stop overtaking government affairs as if the system of governance is presidential.       The president’s unconstitutional power grabbing have marginalized the Prime Minister and Ministers; ruined institution building processes and created unbalanced power sharing among various clans, which has instigated clan sentiment and created divided communities.
   
2. The government  should encourage, instead of blocking, various regions and communities to  hold their conferences in order to establish federated regional states avoiding any imposition of leadership from the top. The role of the federal government should be limited on coaching, facilitating, mediating and making sure that these regions are complying with the national.
3.  Forming national unity government capable of discharging bequeathed responsibilities. The new government must include qualified and experienced individuals of high standing within the society. Also, it should be wide enough to accommodate various clans to quench their desire for power and prestige without compromising quality and capacity.” 

The entire interview with Dr. Abdurahman M. Baadiyow will be published in WardheerNews shortly.

Abdelkarim A Hassan
WardheerNews