US congratulates Somalians on election

iyebiye olawuyi

February 9, 2017 9:05 PM

The US also commended the Somali Security Forces and the African Union Mission in Somalia.

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The United States Government on Thursday congratulated the people of Somalia and the newly-elected President Abdullahi Mohamed, on the conduct of the election.

The U.S. in a statement issued by the Deparment of State’s Acting Spokesperson, Mr Mark Toner, also commended the Somali Security Forces and the African Union Mission in Somalia.

Toner, however, said that his government regretted the irregularities reported in the electoral process.

“The United States congratulates the people of Somalia on the successful conclusion of their national electoral process."

“We congratulate , on his selection as the next President of the Federal Government of Somalia and look forward to working closely with him and a new government."

“We commend the Somali Security Forces and the African Union Mission in Somalia for their efforts over the past six months to allow the electoral process to unfold in a relatively safe and secure environment,’’ he said.The U.S. government also commended thousands of Somalis from across the country, including youths and women that voted in greater numbers than in the 2012 elections.

According to him, the transition represents an important step forward for the country.

Toner said that the U.S. government encouraged the new administration in Somalia to evolve workable measures aimed at fighting corruption.

The government also enjoined the Somalian government to establish strong electoral institutions that would enable a free and fair, one person, one vote, poll in 2020.

He said that the U.S. would partner with the new government to advance reconciliation, drought relief, security, and build the strong institutions that would promote good governance and development in Somali.

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