Discussing tropical cyclone response and forthcoming elections

GAROWE, Puntland, November 21, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ –The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Somalia, Nicholas Kay visited Garowe today, the first stop of a three-day tour in the Federal State of Puntland.

During his meeting with Puntland President Abdirahman Farole, he expressed his great sorrow over the recent tropical cyclone that hit Puntland causing deaths, damage to infrastructure and loss of livestock. He also congratulated the authorities on their hard work and timely response and said that the United Nations would do its utmost to support the people of Puntland during this difficult time. He noted that UN efforts to date included provision of food, water and basic provisions for thousands of affected people.

SRSG Kay discussed with President Farole progress on the Puntland electoral process especially on issues of women’s participation, security and the formation of the vetting committee (Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation Committee), which will review the nominated MPs.

“I heard from President Farole his plans for providing the right security arrangements for presidential candidates. I underlined the importance of forming the vetting committee in good time and noted that it needed to command the confidence of candidates, traditional leaders and the people of Puntland” said SRSG Kay. “I urge all involved in this process to strengthen the upcoming Puntland Parliament by increasing the representation of women,” Mr. Kay added.

Mr Kay welcomed President Farole’s continuing commitment to holding the elections on 8 January 2014 and his invitation to visit Garowe at that time.

SOURCE

UNITED NATIONS

 

Violence against journalists condemned by UNOCI

ABIDJAN, Côte d’Ivoire, November 20, 2013/African Press Organization (APO)/ – The Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Côte d’Ivoire and Head of the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI), Mrs Aïchatou Mindaoudou, condemns the attack against Mr. Désiré Gnonsiohoué of Tomorrow Magazine, on 14 November 2013, which resulted in his death. UNOCI presents its condolences to the victim’s family, the Magazine, and the corporation of journalists in Côte d’Ivoire.

UNOCI expresses concern and condemns the kidnapping of Mr. Dieusmonde Tadé, a journalist with the daily newspaper, Le Nouveau Réveil, between 18 and 19 November 2013.

UNOCI urges the competent authorities to take all necessary measures to ensure that those who carried these acts be identified and brought to justice.

UNOCI appeals to all those concerned to work to ensure freedom of information and expression, as well as the right to be informed through a free and plural press.

 

SOURCE

Mission of UN in Côte d’Ivoire