US hails adoption of Somalia's Provisional Constitution

Washington, DC, US (PANA) - The United States has hailed Wednesday's approval of Somalia's Provisional Constitution, saying it moves Somalia ''closer towards lasting stability''.

''Despite significant logistical difficulties, political pressure, death threats, and two attacks on the National Constituent Assembly venue, this vote affirms that the Somali people will not be intimidated by violence as they work to rebuild their country,'' the US State Department said in a statement obtained by PANA.

''The people of the United States applaud the members of the National Constituent Assembly for their dedication and conviction. The next step in Somalia's political transition is for Somalia's traditional elders to select a new parliament that will elect a speaker of parliament and
president.

''We urge that these remaining tasks be completed quickly and transparently so that the transition ends on schedule, and Somalia is able to usher in a new era of governance that is more responsive, representative, and accountable,'' the statement said.

The US assured that its support for Somalia and the Somali people will continue beyond the end of the transition.

On Wednesday, the 825-member Constituent Assembly voted overwhelmingly to approve the Provisional Constitution, paving the way for the election of the country’s President 20 August.

The Provisional Constitution will replace the eight-year-old Transitional Federal Charter.
-0- PANA SEG 3Aug2012