Last week a five day Vision 2016 Conference, convened by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, took place in Mogadishu, September 2-6. It is intended to be the first of a series of national dialogues on the transition towards democratic legitimacy. The conference discussed the themes of constitutional development, options for models of federalism, reform and good governance, electoral processes and party politics, and political outreach, public engagement, reconciliation, and transitional justice. The conference was attended by members of parliament, regional authorities, civil society groups and experts, as well as members of the Diaspora. It adopted a n umber of core principles.
These included Somali ownership of an inclusive, and transparent political process, consistent with the Provisional Constitution and agreement for a "rigorous, spirited review process of the Provisional Constitution gaining public legitimacy through a referendum." It agreed on a federal political system that brings government closer to the people, and safeguards unity and stability; free and fair electoral processes based; commitment to, and the promotion of, integrity and good governance; and a comprehensive reconciliation process to bring about national cohesion and integration. It recommended the review and implementation of the Constitution as a priority, that t the government should establish the Boundaries and Federations Commission as directed by the Provisional Constitution within 60 days; and that it should create an enabling environment for multi-party politics and establish the Independent Electoral Commission within 6 months.
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