The process
of allocating seats for the Somali Transitional National Assembly
is slowing moving forward. Sources close to the Digil-Mirefle
community have indicated that an agreement was reached between
the RRA lead by Col. Shatigadud and clan leaders present in
Arta. It is expected that the Digil-Mirefle elders will submit
their list in a short time. The Dir clan and the Alliance
group have already submitted their list for their allocated
seats.
At this
time, the Darod and Hawiye represent the main stumbling block,
they are still negotiating the re-distribution of their quota
of 44+5 representative to their various sub-clans. Currently,
a mediation process is underway to resolve the inter-clan
differences and rapidly move to the formation of the provisional
government. Clan elders involved in the negotiations have
stated that "It is premature to set a time frame for a submission
of the Hawiye and Darod list. But, everyone is working hard
for a rapid solution of this process".
The current
mood seems to indicate that the Hawiye have made some progress
in their talks. But, the Darod talks are in a stalemate. Somalis
very familiar to the details of the ongoing negotiations held
so far have indicated that the most difficult task is still
ahead. Some of the delegates present in Arta have stated that
the next phase would likely be more contentious then all other
previous debates.
The issue
of the presidency, prime minister and speaker of the parliament
are expected to be a hot debate. The Somalis present at Arta
have suggested that a mix of clan politics infused with modern
campaigning methods is appearing in Djibouti. The clan politics,
which dominated Djibouti's conference thus far, is leaving
part of the stage to the backroom politics and maneuvering
of skilled politicians with high expectations.
Once each
clan has submitted its list of members for the interim parliament,
those candidates for the presidency and prime minister position
will begin courting the elected members.
The Somali
intellectuals present at the gathering have indicated that
each clan would have hard time imposing their will to the
newly elected members of the Transitional National Assembly.
Although, it is likely that most of the members of the National
Assembly would vote along clans line a significant number
is expected to vote on a personal or political preference.
Thus,
this block of votes would become a high priority for any candidate
seeking a key position in the provisional government.
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