Talking Notes for Briefing on Somalia Under Any Other Business

Thank you Linda,

I thank SRSG James Swan for his briefing.

Kenya remains greatly concerned by the lack of election agreement and the prolonged crisis in Somalia. It is unfortunate that for the umpteenth time, Somalia's leaders are unable to reach a consensus on moving forward with the elections based on the 17th September 2020 agreement despite several calls by this Council.

As we look forward to Somalia's transition, we want to recall that one of the key past accomplishments by Somalia, that will be key going forward, is the holding of elections and the orderly transfer of power. This pillar is deteriorating with every passing day.

Constitutional authority and legitimacy are hard to maintain as leaders stray into constitutional grey areas. It invites questions by opposition leaders, and those who support the now endangered political tradition.

What we are witnessing is a dangerous tendency by the leadership, especially within the Federal Government, to focus on militarising the political space and engaging in intimidation of opposition leaders and critics.

It is incumbent on the Somali leaders to heed the calls to urgently engage in genuine talks, bearing in mind that they must be ready to make compromises towards a consensus on the holding of the elections without any further unnecessary delays.

Kenya supports the previous call by the African Union against partial or non-inclusive electoral process. Any attempts to extend the mandate of the Government which expired on 8th February 2021 should also be avoided as it could aggravate the situation and further compromise the security situation.

Kenya's believes that delay is growing the confidence of Al Shabaab to feel it is close to a government in waiting. Its attacks have accelerated, and its ability to intimidate and present itself as a legitimate actor is growing.

I wish to remind this Council that the transition we all wish for requires that this deadly enemy be degraded sufficiently to allow for Somalia's political and security order to be able to stand firmly.

Kenya and the A3+1 in the last few weeks called for the recognition of the link between political inclusion and effective national security. Kenya regrets that we are not traveling in that desired direction.

In view of these, and to make a clear and strong united Council statement, Kenya supports the proposed press elements calling for swift resolution of the outstanding issues to pave way for holding of an all-inclusive and credible elections.

I request the SRSG to shed light on the areas the parties could be willing to compromise on. Also how the expiry of the term of the current Government has impacted movement toward the elections with stronger opposition emerging.

I thank you