Somalia

Mogadishu residents celebrate Somalia's election to UN Security Council

Mayor of Mogadishu and Banadir regional administration Governor Yusuf Hussein Madaale Speaks on Saturday during celebration of Somalia's election to UN Security Council. (Handout)

By Yunis Dekow | Saturday, June 8, 2024

Mayor Yusuf said that the election outcome of the United Nations Security Council reflects Somalia's ability to stand independently.

Hundreds gathered in Mogadishu on Saturday to celebrate Somalia's election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council (UNSC) for the 2025-2026 term.

Somalia, Pakistan, Panama, Greece, and Denmark secured their positions during the General Assembly session on Thursday.

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Somalia received 179 votes, Pakistan 182, Panama 183, Greece 182, and Denmark 184, surpassing the two-thirds majority required to replace Ecuador, Japan, Malta, Mozambique, and Switzerland. These new members will serve their non-permanent UNSC terms from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre in a dispatch to the media on Saturday, reiterated Somalia's steadfast dedication to assuming a leading role on the international stage, particularly in addressing global challenges and security concerns.

"Somalia stands ready to contribute constructively to the peace and security agenda of the council," read part of the statement.

The government of Somalia said it is committed to actively engaging in international affairs comes at this pivotal juncture, as the world confronts numerous security challenges.

The Mayor of Mogadishu and Banadir regional administration Governor, Yusuf Hussein Madaale joined the city residents in marking the historic success achieved by Somalia.

Mayor Yusuf said that the election outcome of the United Nations Security Council reflects Somalia's ability to stand independently.

He was addressing hundreds of residents at the regional headquarters after a march through the city.

Mogadishu city residents march to mark the historic success achieved by Somalia following election to UN Security Council. (Photo: Handout)

He told the enthusiastic gathering of the city residents, government officials, religious leaders and women and youth organisations representatives, that this step symbolises Somalia's restored stability.

He expressed gratitude to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre for their successive achievements in returning the country to the council after five decades of absence since its 1971 non-permanent membership.

He noted that Somalia has reemerged in the international arena after three decades. "With this achievement, Somalia has taken a significant step forward in reclaiming its position in the international community."

Sheikh Hussein Arale, a religious leader at the event, said the achievement was a blessing from Allah. "Somalia's presence at the UNSC will allow us to advocate for justice and peace on a global scale."

Faiza Nuur, a young university student, said she is truly inspired by this achievement. "It shows that our country is capable of overcoming challenges and achieving great things."

The youthful bachelor of arts in business administration student said the achievement brings pride to all Somalis, regardless of existing differences.

"I feel a sense of responsibility now that Somalia is part of the UNSC. We must work hard to represent our country effectively and bring about positive change."