Somalia: Parliament sub-committees address Puntland Parliament

GAROWE, Puntland- State Parliament committees of Somalia’s semi-autonomous region of Puntland have started on Wednesday presenting reports and findings before the Parliament wide range of issues including politics, national planning, federalism, naturalization and infrastructure, Garowe Online reports.

State MP and deputy chairman of planning and political committee, Saed Abdi Samatr “Surad” addressed the Parliament and highlighted about challenges faced by his committees to oversee performance of several government institutions.

The parliamentarian said the Presidential office, Ministry of Constitutional affairs and Ministry of Planning were among institutions refused to cooperate with the committee.

“Naturalization program is overseen by the President office, and unfortunately there was no cooperation with our committee. We made several attempt to communicate with the office but no response made,” said Surad.

Puntland President’s visit to the Somali capital Mogadishu to participate in the high-level forum with Somali leaders was not discussed with relevant parliament committee, added Surad.

Planning and political committee urged the Parliament leadership to intervene and resolve matters that hindering the activities of committees with relevant government institutions.

On the other hand, the chairman of Public works and Housing committee, Mohamed Farah Warsame also addressed the Parliament, and focused on the infrastructure projects planned for the region.

However, the chairman didn’t note any challenges faced by his committee with relevant institutions.

Puntland Parliament has 10 sub-committees that oversee on-going governmental operations, identify issues for legislative review and recommend courses of action to the Parliament.

The remaining Parliament committees are scheduled to present their reports in the coming days before the Parliament.

During today's session, Parliament leadership set out the agenda that will be discussed by the state Parliament during the 39th session of Puntland Parliament. 

GAROWEONLINE