Mogadishu (Opinion) — The United Nations might gradually be losing its impartiality in Somali politics.
As the lead international organisation in Somalia, its office, UNSOM, competes with foreign embassies in authorising tweets that reduce Somalia to little more than a political theatre of absurdity.
Its latest tweet reflects once more a patronising attitude rather than the role of an organisation formed to promote peace and conflict resolution.
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Instead of offering any possible technical support to break the deadlock over the 17 September electoral agreement, UNSOM deepens the deadlock either by emphasising the primacy of the electoral model, or portraying the cause of the deadlock as a disagreement between Jubaland and Puntland on one side, and the Federal Government of Somalia, Galmudug, Hirshabelle, South West State and Banadir on the other.
Both cannot be correct.
If UNSOM finds that being seen as biased towards one side is unpalatable, it should clarify why a reference to the core principles of the electoral model, which should have been implemented by now, aims to remind Somali political stakeholders of their obligation to keep their word.
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The sticking point is the demand of Jubaland to renegotiate the terms of the 17 September Electoral Agreement.
This is a risky venture that could open up a Pandora’s box of political demands, and can damage the image of the Federal Government of Somalia.
The Chairman of the Upper House Abdi Hashi told the BBC Somali Service today that “all Somalis must meet and reach an agreement”. Hashi said he is not allowed to participate in the electoral talks. He views the 17 September electoral model as a palaver.
UNSOM should seek the advice of the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs at the United Nations to be able to constructively contribute to maintaining the political, social and economic progress attained in Somalia partly because of the selfless help of Somalia’s international partners.
This article first appeared in the Puntland Post and is republished with permission.
