Peace talks resume after short break

The Somali national reconciliation conference resumed in the Kenyan town of Eldoret on Tuesday after a three-day hiatus, a member of the organising committee told IRIN. The suspension of the proceedings came at the request of the participants who said they needed time to study a draft proposal presented to them by the organisers. They received the draft on Friday night and were asked to submit their comments in writing. "The leaders requested some time to study the draft and respond. We expect all parties to bring their written comments today [Tuesday]," the source said. He said the draft comprises "the rules of procedure, the phases of the conference and a declaration on the cessation of hostilities". The participants were also expected to agree to a reduction of the number of delegates. Some 300 were invited, but there are now reportedly over 500, and organisers are anxious to reduce the numbers to the original figure. Tuesday's talks were expected to focus on the rules of procedure, sources close to the conference told IRIN. Meanwhile, more participants joined the talks on Friday and Saturday, raising hopes that the conference could make real progress. Delegations led by faction leaders Muhammad Qanyare Afrah, and Mawlid Ma'ane arrived on Friday, while another, led by Usman Hasan Ali Ato, arrived on Saturday. Delegations already in Eldoret include those of the Mogadishu-based Transitional National Government, the self-declared autonomous region of Puntland, the opposition Somali Reconciliation and Restoration Council (SRRC), the Kismayo-based Juba Valley Alliance and several Mogadishu warlords. Notable faction leaders present include Husayn Muhammad Aydid (SRRC), Muse Sudi Yalahow (Mogadishu) and his erstwhile ally - turned rival - Umar Finish.