WDM EDITORIAL

There is no denying that the current Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has achieved tremendous foreign policy successes despite criticism of his domestic approach. Somalia’s ascent to membership in the East African Community Block and lifting of long running arms embargo on Somalia are significant foreign policy achievements few believed could be done. And with the expected Debt Relief, Somalia is moving forward. But, a sound management of these policy successes, together with the Federal Member States, is key to a successful implemention. Congratulations to the President HSM. Despite its challenging domestic problems, Somalia is back in the world arena because of the President’s tireless and exceptional efforts. In that regard, HSM proved to be a stateman.

However, his domestic policy is nothing but total failure. What is needed now as a policy priority could be summarized as:

1. National Reconciliation to ensure a cohesive society, good governance and promotion of federal structures and institutions-building of his government.

2. Elimination of Al-Shabab menace in the country.

3. Rebuilding of the infrastructure of the Capital City of Mogadishu and clearing the mess being created everytime it rains, which turns the City into water ponds of an inhabitable environment.

Ceaseless overseas travels by the President since he came to power are now paying off, shutting down any criticism against his foreign policy adventures. He is well advised now to address the acute domestic priorities that could bring his regime down, if not tackled with immediately.

4. Somalia is a clan society that require delicate balance amidst acute clan rivalries to seek harmonious coexistence in power and resources sharing.

5. Checks and balance of power between branches of government and their separation are among the areas of serious concern in HSM’s administration.

[This editorial has been edited since posting].