Editor’s Note: WardheerNews had a rare opportunity to interview President Hassan Sh. Mohamoud, on the occasion of completing his first year in office. Abdelkarim A. Hassan has conducted the interview for WDN.
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WardheerNew: Mr. President, congratulation for the first anniversary. Many people argue that your administration has unearthed the scars of the past Somali civil war, particularly the FGoS policies towards Jubaland administration has made many to criticise your government, amid the agreement between the FGoS and Jubaland in Addis Ababa. Could you share the position of your administration on Jubaland?
President Hassan: Thank you WardheerNews for this interview, the FGoS always believes the best way to solve our problems is through dialogue, reconciliation and to respect the constitution and all the laws that exist. The issue of Kismayu, the FGoS made many efforts to solve in a peaceful manner, and this is our policy towards all issues within Somalis. Contrary to your assertion, our policy towards Kismayu has been very clear to many Somalis, to move away from an era of chaos to an era of peace and stability with due regard to the institutions that have the mandate to represent the people of Somalia. I am very glad that we have now solved the issue through peaceful dialogue and understanding. This is the beginning of the process to implement federalism in Somalia as enshrined in our constitution. A set of processes will follow the agreement, such as a conference in Mogadishu and another one in Kismayu, the parliament to review the constitution and to set up the legislations required to forming federal units in Somalia
WDN: Mr. President, Al-Shabab although weakened, still controls important regions of Southern Somalia, particularly the key port city of Brava. The momentum of driving Al-Shabab out of their strongholds seems fading. What are your plans to expand the control of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) to Brava and beyond?
President Hassan: Al-Shabaab is on the run, but they are still alive. Our forces and AMISOM are stretched as we now control most of the country. Due to logistical reasons we have been focusing on plans to continue our offensive against Al-Shabab. We will soon take over all the areas that are under Al-Shabab control. Our focus was also the stabilization of the territories under the control of the FGoS. We are grateful for the support of African forces including Ethiopian forces. Our forces are ready not only to stabilize the country but also to continue the fight against Al-Shabab. It will be a matter of time before we see Somalis enjoying peace and stability. Our vision is to see a Somalia that is at peace with itself and with its neighbours, a Somalia that is a useful member of the nations of the world. With the help of the people we can achieve more and more.
WDN: Mr. President many people applauded your government’s recent decision to put Sheikh Hassan Dahir Aweys through a due process to face justice while the Sheikh’s supporters were angered by such decision, what can you tell us about the status of Sh. Aweys’ case?
President Hassan: Hassan Dahir Aweys is in custody and awaiting due process. All options are on the table.
WDN: According to Article 53 of the Federal constitution, “the Federal Government shall consult the Federal Member States on negotiations relating to foreign aid, trade, treaties, or other major issues related to international agreements.” Is your administration consulting with regional administrations on matters related to trade and aid?
President Hassan: The FGoS believes that it is absolutely critical and important that communities are consulted and engaged in all decision making process. Current and future Federal units will absolutely have our support, engagement and consultation. Having said that the parliament and the cabinet is the legitimate body that is fully represented by all communities and they are the only institutions that have the mandate to represent the interest of the people of Somalia. I have no doubt that once the review of the constitution is finalised all processes will be very clear and transparent on roles and responsibilities.
Read the full interview with President Hassan_WDN
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