Ethiopian Government Statement on Somaliland Presidential Elections of 26 June 2010 (commitment to maintaining the peace and stability..as well as its on-going democratization

Press Statement

The people of Somaliland once again demonstrated their sense of responsibility and commitment to maintaining the peace and stability of the country as well as its on-going democratization. The Somaliland political parties have also remained true to this high standard of citizenship demonstrated by their people. It does not matter who has prevailed in the election. The winners are the people of Somaliland and they need to be congratulated.

It is in this spirit that we encourage all concerned to respect the provisional results announced by the Electoral Commission. If there are complaints, the proper legal procedures need to be followed. Full compliance to the rule of law is critical for Somaliland, for its peace and stability and for the success of its democratization. The people of Somaliland can always count on the full support of the Government and People of Ethiopia as they continue to preserve their peace and stability and ensure the democratic process is protected.

The Government of Ethiopia pays tribute to the leaders of all political parties of Somaliland, and in particular, to President Dahir Rayale, for his high sense of obligation to the people of Somaliland and to the leader of the winning party, Mr. Ahmed Mohamed Silanyo, for his magnanimity and for his commitment to build on what has been achieved in Somaliland over the years.

http://www.mfa.gov.et/Press_Section/PressStatementSomaliland.pdf



2 July 2010