Somalia: UN, AU, IGAD Issue Final 'Unambiguous Warning' to Spoilers

Mogadishu — The UN, IGAD and the African Union issued a joint statement on Friday to those using "nefarious means" to coerce positions in government in upcoming Somali elections, Garowe Online reports.

The joint letter was signed by UN Special Representative to Somalia Augustine Mahiga, Special Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission for Somalia Boubacar Diarra and IGAD Special Facilitator for Somalia Peace and National Reconciliation, Kipruto Kirwa.

With less than two weeks left the international community released a joint statement that stated that it would be unacceptable for individuals to jeopardize the political process at such a critical stage, and said that those attempting to "manipulate, delay or derail this process".... "would be dealt with as spoilers".

The letter also singled out campaigning politicians who have a history of violence and criminality.

The Technical Selection Committee (TSC) which are responsible for assessing if the MP-elects meet the agreed upon criteria, were given a warning to ensure that former MPs with a debauched record not be reelected.

"We strongly urge the TSC to ensure that those people who have a history of criminality, violence and intimidation, or who are employing bribery and corruption, and other political spoilers are not returned to Parliament," read the letter.

According to the statement, the TSC will also be given "comprehensive information" to give them the opportunity to select credible members of parliament. The letter does not describe from who or what organization the comprehensive information will be obtained from.

As the elections draws closer, the political process in its late stages has been marred by controversy as reports of intimidation, coercion and bribery of tribal elders and members of the TSC by individuals who are aspiring for political seats in the new federal government is increasing.

The UN, IGAD and the AU have issued numerous similar warnings throughout the political process over the past year. Despite the stark warnings by the international community the reports of 'spoiler' behavior have not ceased to stop .

GAROWE ONLINE