Somali president appoints new prime minister

Somali President Mohamed Farmajo has appointed Mohamed Hussein Roble as the country’s new prime minister to replace Ali Hassan Khaire, who was impeached by parliament in July.

Farmajo, who made the announcement on Thursday night, directed Roble to form a new government to lead the country through the transition period as Somalia prepares for the 2020/2021 general elections.

The president said he made the appointment of Roble on the basis of his knowledge, experience and ability to take the government initiative, building efforts and the development of national plans.

He directed Roble to make significant efforts to consolidate security gains, rebuild the armed forces and develop infrastructure.

Roble, a graduate of Somali National University in civil engineering, is an international civil servant who worked at the International Labor Organisation (ILO).

In a statement after his appointment, Roble, who once worked at the University of London and lived in New York, said he will cooperate with all Somalis as he leads the delicate transition period.

Xinhua/GY