Somalia Delays Opening of Parliament Amid Political Turmoil and Electoral Disputes

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Federal Parliament of Somalia will not be opened today (Saturday) as planned, following last-minute changes orchestrated by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who is facing a political storm back home.

The 7th session will be opened in Seoul on the 29th, with the house leadership sending late messages to legislators from the bicameral house. The house is supposed to deliberate on a number of issues, including electoral laws.

The divisional constitution, as outlined in Article 90, requires the president to open parliamentary sessions, during which he is expected to address legislators on various government issues. This is apparently the culture of commonwealth nations.

The delay comes amid growing speculation in Mogadishu about political maneuvering by lawmakers, with reports suggesting some Members of Parliament may be preparing a motion against Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre.

Barre ruled out running against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, maintaining that the two have a cordial working relationship. For the last three years, the duo has not been embroiled in persistent power wrangles as witnessed before.

The session comes at a time the country is facing political storms over the recent change of laws — which dictates that the country shall embrace direct elections, a move opposed by several political leaders — including Jubaland and Puntland.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud maintains that the country cannot afford to discard the new electoral model, arguing that such a decision would profoundly affect the democracy of Somalia. The opposing leaders want the old model to be used in the 2026 polls.

GAROWE ONLINE