BBC editor vies for Somali presidency
By Online Team
13th Aug 2012:
The BBC’s former Somali Service Editor Mr Yusuf Garaad has taken a huge leap of faith in his war-torn country Somalia by declaring his intention to run for the highest office in the land, that of President of Somalia in the forthcoming general election.
“…Armed guards, big convoy, exuberant crowd – smiling Yusuf Garaad flies into Mogadishu, swapping BBC job for a crack at Somali Presidency” – that is how Yusuf Garaad’s former colleague, the BBC’s Africa Correspondent Andrew Harding dramatically broke the news of Yusuf Garaad’s bid for the Somali Presidency on twitter.
Two weeks ago, Somali legislators passed a draft constitution that should, in principle at least, pave way for an eventual return to political normalcy and stability after more than 20 years of war, and without a government.
As the BBC’s Somali Service Editor, Yusuf Garaad’s editorial decisions have made him as many Somali friends as enemies. His venture into elective politics will surely reveal whether he has more enemies than friends, or vice versa. END. Login to www.ugandacorrespondent.com every Monday to read our top stories mid-week for our updates
Follow us: Twitter: @UGCorrespondent
Follow us: Facebook: Uganda Correspondent
