WDM EDITORIAL

The spread of violence and armed confrontations between the fledgling Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and some of the Federal Member States (airlift of federal troops to Ras Cambooni,  Garbaharey, and Bardheere in Jubaland State) after the UN ARMS EMBARGO on Somalia was prematurely lifted indicates that authorities in Somalia can’t be entrusted with arms and debt relief. Airlifting troops to depose the leaders of the Federal Member States clearly demonstrates that there is no responsible regime for peace and safety of citizens in the country, at least not yet.

Doing due diligence and prudent course of action now by the international community is to re-impose the sanctions on Mogadishu until Somali irresponsible authorities get the message, and even initiate further sanctions against personalities in leadership for their impunity against human rights abuses and violations of the country’s constitutional order, and solemn agreements reached by the people of Somalia to end the long running civil war.

Many in Somalia now believe that the UN Security Council’s lifting of arms embargo has helped peace spoilers get the weapons and funds they needed to continue the civil war under the disguise of a sovereign state.

We believe that the current constitutional crisis and chaos, renewed violence, and instability in this troubled country are just the beginning of what about to come from now on.

Alarmingly, the fight against Al–Shabab and ISIS isn’t listed anymore in the New Agenda of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

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Dear Citizen,

I do not care if my president, minister, director, lawyer, or service provider is hailing from Hawiye, Daarood, or anyone else as long as one is playing fair and square. A good government is one that enjoys strong support from all its citizens, with no nepotism, corruption, or preferential treatment- one person or situation should be treated in the same way that another person or situation is treated with equal fairness under the law,  a government that unites its people,  territory and good, credible and representative leadership.

A responsible government is one that abides by the law, upholds the constitution, and respects the will and the participation of all the people. The best government is one that enjoys the trust of its citizens.

Such a responsive administration would defend the rights of its citizens, enforce the law equally, protect its people from external and internal threats, preserve the integrity of the territory of the homeland, maintain peace, administer justice, foster social and economic developments and deliver public services, using best practices.

Ahmed Siad
December 19, 2024

WDM APPEAL FOR PEACE

Erigavo was one of the few shining towns for multi-clan peaceful coexistence in Somalia. It is unfortunate that it is experiencing violence and displacement of innocent law-abiding residents living in harmony and understanding for centuries. Erigavo tranquillity and calm must be restored quickly. Violators of peace and security must be brought to justice . Erigavo should be saved from the brink of disaster now. All must help to achieve restraint and calm in Erigavo. Authorities in Somaliland and SSC-KHADUMO must respond positively to the imperative need for peace in Erigavo now.

.. ……End of appeal…….

“Analysis of One Person, One Vote (1P1V) in Somalia

The principle of One Person, One Vote (1P1V) is crucial for establishing a genuine democratic framework. However, the current context in Somalia poses significant challenges. Below is a structured breakdown of the key points regarding 1P1V and its implications for democratic elections:

1. Self-Governance

• Democratic Foundation: Democracy is fundamentally based on the belief that the state belongs to its citizens.
• Sovereign Right: Citizens possess the inherent right to choose their leaders through free and fair elections, as defined by the constitution.
  2. Rule of Law
• Governance: Elected officials must operate according to established laws, ensuring fairness in the electoral process.
• Transparency: The election process should be transparent, with equal rules for all candidates and no misuse of state resources.
  3. Freedom
• Rights of Participants: Voters and candidates must have the freedom to campaign, express opinions, and assemble without restrictions.
• Equal Opportunities: All participants in the electoral process should be provided with equal opportunities to engage. Concerns Regarding President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud’s Approach
• Lack of Clarity: The interpretation of 1P1V by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud remains ambiguous, raising questions about its legitimacy and application.
• Manipulation of Elections:
• Constitutional Alterations: There are allegations that changes to the constitution undermine democratic processes.
• Flawed Electoral Laws: The electoral laws enacted lack broad political consensus, which could lead to disenfranchisement.
• Illegitimate Electoral Commission: The establishment of the electoral commission is perceived as lacking legitimacy, further complicating the electoral landscape. Summary
• Legitimacy of 1P1V: A true democratic framework necessitates a legitimate implementation of 1P1V that aligns with principles of self-governance, rule of law, and freedom.
• Opposition to Autocracy: The Somali populace’s resistance is not against the concept of 1P1V itself, but against an electoral process manipulated to favor President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud.

This overview underscores the critical need for adherence to democratic principles to ensure that elections genuinely reflect the will of the people.”