Politics
Somalia: President Mohamud nominates Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed as Prime Minister
Somalia’s president has nominated a political newcomer as prime minister Thursday, days after his predecessor was ousted following a vote of no confidence.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud revealed that he had nominated Abdiweli Sheikh Ahmed (pictured), an economist who has worked with several international organisations and banks.
“After a long consultations, I have taken the decision to name Abdiweli Sheik Mohamed as prime minister,” the president told reporters in Mogadishu at Villa Somalia – the building which houses the office of the president. “He deserves to take up the responsibility, I hope that parliament endorses his nomination.”
Ahmed, 54, faces a giant task to quash the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabaab islamists, and rebuild the nation.
“I hope that I will fulfill the duties I am entrusted with, and if parliament approves my nomination, I will swiftly name a high caliber cabinet,” Ahmed said.
Ahmed, holds a doctorate in trade and development from Ottawa university and speaks multiple languages including English, Arabic and Italian. He most recently worked for the Jeddah-based Islamic Development Bank.
He replaces former prime minister Abdi Farah Shirdon. If approved, he will have 30 days to appoint a new cabinet, which must then be approved by parliament.
The Somali government which took power in August 2012 was the first to be given global recognition since the collapse of the hardline regime in 1991. It was hailed as offering the best chance for peace in a generation, replacing a transitional leadership mired by ineffectiveness and rampant corruption.
Political wrangles and reports of corruption have raised concern that the government, like the last administration, is trapped by infighting.
The political squabbling follows the resignation last month of the second central bank governor during this government.
Source: AFP