(24-01-24) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) — Members of both Houses of the Somali Federal Parliament on Wednesday voted overwhelmingly to initiate the process to amend the nation’s Transitional Constitution.
The parliamentary session, which has been the focus of intense scrutiny, concluded with 180 MPs supporting the amendment procedure, while 30 opposed it. This announcement was made by the Speaker of the Somali Federal Parliament, highlighting the overwhelming support for the motion.
The road to approval was not without its challenges. Early in the proceedings, a small faction of MPs attempted to halt the process, leading to turmoil within the council. However, their efforts were ultimately unsuccessful.
Speaking on the matter, MP Ilyas Sheikh Ahmed, a vocal advocate for the amendment, noted the opposition faced. “There were many friends who tried to prevent it. We recorded it; we have 11 MPs who tried to prevent it, but the majority managed to approve it according to the law,” he stated. Ahmed emphasised the significance of this step, heralding it as the beginning of a new chapter for Somalia and its constitution.
This development has been a source of considerable debate and controversy, especially since it initially faced resistance from most opposition members, including former national leaders. However, this decision aligns with the resolution of the National Consultative Assembly in May last year, which agreed to transition away from the current system. The proposed changes include the removal of the Prime Minister’s position, and the introduction of a presidential system with a President and a Vice President, a first in Somalia’s political structure.
Halqabsi News
