(19 March 2024) MOGADISHU (Halqabsi News) — Seventy-one members from both chambers of Somalia’s Federal Parliament convened in Mogadishu on Monday evening, voicing significant opposition against proposed amendments to the national constitution and underlining the potential risk of national division and compromise of the country’s integrity.
The assembly of parliamentarians, a mix of both MPs and senators, united to express their stance against the ongoing amendment initiatives. They highlighted concerns that the current proposals could lead to the fragmentation of the Somali people and destabilize the nation.
In a public statement released following their discussion, the MPs pointed out the incomplete nature of the agreement to amend the constitution, particularly noting the absence of representatives from Puntland in the decisions of the National Consultative Council. They articulated “grave concerns” regarding the prospective amendments, indicating that such changes might adversely impact national unity and political stability.
“The process of altering the constitution and the structure of governance poses a serious threat to our nation’s unity and stability,” asserted MP Gamadiid, who delivered the official statement.
The legislators criticized the amendments in progress, arguing that they represent a complete overhaul rather than a refinement of the existing constitution. They highlighted the extensive alterations and additions to the document as central issues.
The report additionally emphasized the perceived neglect in safeguarding the independence of government institutions, particularly criticizing the lack of unanimous decision-making, a situation exacerbated by Puntland’s absence from the consultation process.
Addressing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud directly, Transitional Speakers of the Parliament, Senator Mohamed Gagaab and MP Abdisalan Dhabancad, showcased their dissent. MP Dhabancad implored the President to prioritize national unity, stating, “I am not merely opposition; I stand against the alteration of our constitution. You have achieved significant progress as president; let’s not undermine those accomplishments.”
Echoing this sentiment, Senator Gagaab disapproved of the present efforts, condemning them as attempts to fundamentally change the constitution under the guise of completion for “private interests,” hence declaring, “We dismiss these incomplete initiatives.”
The strong stance taken by these parliamentarians signals a deepening rift within Somali politics, as debates intensify over the constitutional amendments and their implications for the nation’s future governance and unity.
Halqabsi News
