Jigjiga, June 11,2005 (WIC) -The Somali State Security and Justice Administration Bureau said preparations were well underway to hold election in the state next August peacefully and freely.

Bureau representative, Desalegn Nemera told WIC that the Bureau, in collaboration with elders, were ensuring security in polling stations to hold the election according to the schedule set by the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia. 

He said law enforcing bodies have been trained in election ethics prepared by the state electoral board office in a bid to enable the judiciary and security forces to discharge their responsibilities in ensuring the supremacy of the law and defending the constitution.  

This round of election is unique and would draw more public participation, as it would be conducted in the wake of decentralization of power to the grassroots, he added. 

He said the public, which has gained enough understanding of the election from the mass media, is longing for the Election Day.  

The disturbances that followed the election in other parts of the country tantamount to pushing the country into an all out crisis, he noted. 

He said the loss of lives and destruction of properties witnessed in the 30 years civil wars that were unleashed by repressive regimes were the major reasons for dragging the country to the abject poverty, adding that obstructing the ongoing democracy and development path is therefore unforgivable. 

The political parties should realize that free election means the peaceful transfer of power, he underscored, and urged them to commit themselves to legal and democratic principles by respecting the verdict of the people.

Source: Walta Information Center

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