The United Nations, African Union, Ethiopia, European Union, Inter-Governmental Authority on Development, Italy, Sweden, United Kingdom, and United States take note of the nomination of candidates for the Upper House by the respective federal member state executives on 8 and 9 October.

Somalia’s international partners welcome the position of the Federal Indirect Electoral Implementation Team (FIEIT), which has underscored the need to adhere to the rules and regulations of the electoral process and the decisions and commitments that Somalia’s leaders made in that regard.

International partners welcome the reservation of two seats for women in Southwest, through women-only contests. They strongly support the FIEIT’s call for a review within 48 hours of the lists of candidates nominated for the Upper House by Galmudug, Jubbaland and Puntland, in accordance with the framework agreed by the National Leadership Forum.  The 48-hour deadline must be met to enable the respective federal member state assemblies to elect the members of the Upper House without prompting further delays in the overall electoral calendar. 

After a year of intense discussions, Somalis have agreed a set of rules to govern this electoral process, one goal of which is increased representation and inclusivity.  It is important for the credibility of Somali leaders that results are achieved in line with the commitments they have made, including on the women’s quota.