At the beginning of 2015, the Forum for Unity and Democracy promulgated its Manifesto for Change, which articulated its vision and goals. This Manifesto was signed by like-minded politicians, intellectuals, and prominent individuals, determined to work together for the cause of advancing and defending democracy, good governance, and the rule of law. The vision of the Forum is to lay the foundation for a united, prosperous and modern Somalia, founded on popular democracy and social justice countering the culture of impunity that feeds on public resources and sows the seeds of division – a country where all citizens enjoy equal political, economic and socio-cultural rights – a country which is free from corruption. The mission of the Forum is to promote legitimate political influence through democratic means in coalition with like-minded politicians and parties – and use such influence to ensure the economic, social, and political empowerment of all Somalis. Our Manifesto for Change envisaged the transformation of the Forum into a full-fledged political party by the year 2016.
Therefore, we, like-minded Somalis:
Recognize the need to organize ourselves into a formidable, united and determined political party, capable of engendering the political and social transformation needed to create a peaceful, united, and democratic Somalia;
Fully aware of the concerns echoed by the Somali people in regard to having a duly-elected representative government, which enjoys the support and trust of the public;
Recognize that the democratic mandate by the people of Somalia through democratic elections is necessary for the stability of the Federal Republic;
Recognize that the Provisional Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia establishes a multi-party system of democracy;
Acknowledge the current political crisis facing our nation;
Cognizant of the need to make meaningful contributions to our nation’s political transition during this critical juncture;
Now, therefore, on this day, 6th of February, 2016, we herein officially establish the National Forum Party (NFP), and we do hereby resolve that:
The NFPÂ shall be a party of a national character as outreach and pre-launch activities have been going on inside the country and with the Diaspora;
The NFPÂ shall be open to all Somali citizens of voting age inside and outside the country;
The NFPÂ shall be transitional body until the enactment of a Political Parties Act by Parliament;
The NFPÂ shall hold regional conferences in the Federal Member States and regions;
The NFPÂ shall hold its first National Conference in the capital city of Mogadishu;
With the above, we would like to extend our congratulations to our founding members and our supporters for their tireless efforts in forming the National Forum Party, thus forging our shared vision for Somalia.
We appeal to our Somali brothers and sisters to join the NFP journey of engendering a better Somalia.
Finally, we would like to extend our sincere appreciation and admiration to our people, wherever they are, for their continued courage and determination to demand for a comprehensive democratic transition whereby the will, the dignity, and integrity of the Somali people are fully restored.
“One Country, One People, and a Government Working for the Peopleâ€
MAY ALLAH BLESS OUR BELOVED SOMALIA
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For more information, please contact:Â Dr. Ali Mohamed Mohamud (Secretary-General of the NFP), Tel No: +252612444777 E-mail: contact@fud.so or secretarygeneral@fud.so
