After nearly a week of negotiations between the Federal government and federal member states, the two sides agreed to hold elections within 60 days after the deal was signed on Thursday afternoon in Somalia’s capital.

Speaking in Mogadishu during the signing of the deal, the former President, who is also among top contenders for the seat in the next elections, noted that although the deal had saved the country from a major catastrophe a lot needs to be done to put the country where it ought to be.

"The success that we are celebrating today is like an eye. The eye needs to be protected from anything that will strain it. This success can be destroyed by one reckless remark made by one leader,” he said on Thursday, adding that the success will only be safeguarded by positive remarks from leaders who are keen to take Somalia where it should be.

"We are hopeful and we are confident. All that we have gone through should be enough of experience. The destination is more important.”

"The success that we are celebrating today is like an eye, the eye needs to be protected from anything that will strain it.” Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, a presidential candidate and former president said

"I wish to inform the Somali people that our presence here today is a great testimony of our previous stand apart from our efforts to safeguard Somalia’s statehood.” Mr. Mohamoud said.

The agreement follows after Somali president Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo whose mandate expired on February planned to extend his term to stay in office for two years, a move which was opposed by Somalis and Somalia’s international partners and sparked violence that forced more than 100 ,000 people to flee Somali capital according to the United Nations.

The agreement which aims to salvage the country on the brink, drew support from Somalia’s international partners among them the United Nations, the European Union, US government among others.

In a statement Secretary General Antonio Gutteres reiterated the importance of dialogue and consensus to resolve any issues that may arise during implementation and called for the swift establishment of credible election management bodies at the federal and state levels to conduct the process.

"United Nations is ready to support the people and Government of Somalia in the implementation of the 17 September Electoral Model and the holding of a timely electoral process,” he said.

The US government called on Somalia’s leaders to maintain the spirit of cooperation and compromise demonstrated during this week’s negotiations.