Somalia: President Hassan calls PM's cabinet reshuffle 'unconstitutional'
Oct 26, 2014 - 03:59:04 AM
MOGADISHU, Somalia Oct 26, 2014 (Garowe Online)-As International Community
and political analysts continue to keep vigil on shift in political
atmosphere at Villa Somalia Presidential Compound following the removal of
presidential aide from key post, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vented
his spleen over the cabinet reshuffle on Saturday evening, Garowe Online
reports.
According to a press statement from his office, Mohamud called the brief
reshuffle 'illegitimate' and 'unconstitutional' which was carried out
without prior consultations with the head of state.
President Mohamud like former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon-who was
ousted in parliamentary no confidence vote in late 2013-accused the current
Prime Minister of power abuse and of being obstacle to the progress of the
government.
"For several times, while safeguarding the public interests I tolerated
unacceptable moves that run counter to the constitutional powers of the
president and [Provisional Federal Constitutional]," said Somalia President,
referring to the whips cracked by Prime Minister Mohamed.
Mohamud added that the Prime Minister sacked ministers and appointed others
without holding consultations with him and reviewing the constitution.
"Having considered the sensitivity of the present time, governance system
and constitution, I hereby declare the cabinet reshuffle made by Prime
Minister on October 25, 2015' non-existent', urge each and every minister to
exercise his duties, and defy the cabinet reshuffle, call on security forces
to press ahead with operations and ask army commanders, and civil servants
to continue their routine duties," the Press statement read.
Insiders tell GO that President Hassan was infuriated by the replacement of
his right hand man and Minister of Justice and Constitution-Farah
ShiekhAbdulkadir-with SalimAliyowIbrow, former Minister of Livestock and
animal husbandry.
On September 7, cabinet ministers fired National Intelligence and Security
Agency (NISA) Boss Abdullahi Mohamed Ali (Sanbaloshe) in extra-ordinary
meeting.
As enshrined in article 100 of Provisional Federal Constitution (PFC), Prime
Minister is charged with appointment, sacking and reshuffle of the cabinet,
while President plays consulting role.
Complex clan politics and personal loyalties may be fuelling the communal
political infighting that has raged between President Mohamud and Prime
Minister Mohamed, diplomatic sources unveil.