Friday December 6, 2024
Speaker of Somalia's House of the People, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur "Madobe," presides over the closing session of parliament on December 6, 2024, in Mogadishu. The fifth session concluded with key electoral reforms aimed at advancing Somalia's transition to one-person, one-vote elections. CREDIT / SONNA
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somalia's House of the People formally closed its fifth session on December 6, 2024, marking the end of a legislative period that was defined by high-stakes reforms aimed at reshaping the country's democratic process. Speaker Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur "Madobe" announced the closure, citing constitutional and parliamentary rules as the guiding framework for the session's conclusion.
During the session, lawmakers tackled some of the country's most pressing legislative priorities, including the passage of laws critical to implementing Somalia's long-awaited one-person, one-vote elections. These elections are expected to redefine Somalia's political landscape after decades of indirect voting systems dominated by clan-based power sharing.
"Your dedication has been essential during this pivotal time," Speaker Madobe said in his closing remarks. He added that the sixth session of parliament is scheduled to begin on February 6, 2025, pending any adjustments to the legislative calendar.
Madobe said one of the session's crowning achievements was the approval of electoral legislation establishing the National Independent Electoral Commission and the Boundary Commission. These frameworks, initially drafted by the Council of Ministers, were expedited through parliament following calls from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to prioritize election-related laws.
On November 2, 2024, the president urged lawmakers to postpone their recess and focus on finalizing legislation essential for conducting credible elections. His appeal was a stark reminder of the government's determination to move beyond Somalia's legacy of political instability and clan-dominated decision-making.
These reforms have been met with cautious optimism, with many observers describing them as a critical step toward greater political inclusion and stability. However, they come amid lingering concerns about security, governance, and the logistical challenges of implementing such an ambitious electoral framework.
The legislative period unfolded against the backdrop of a deepening political crisis between the federal government and Jubaland. The federal government rejected the re-election of Jubaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam "Madobe," citing constitutional violations and breaches of electoral agreements. In retaliation, Jubaland's First Instance Court issued an arrest warrant for Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, accusing him of treason and incitement to rebellion.
These tit-for-tat legal actions have strained relations further, with Jubaland suspending all cooperation with the federal government. The regional administration accused President Mohamud of constitutional violations, corruption, and undermining efforts against Islamist insurgents.
The escalating dispute has drawn international attention, with partners urging both sides to engage in constructive dialogue to prevent further destabilization. The United Nations Security Council has expressed grave concern, emphasizing that political differences should not divert attention from the united fight against militant groups like al-Shabab.
Meanwhile, Somalia remains engaged in an intense battle against Al-Shabaab, whose attacks have disrupted governance and slowed progress on key national priorities.
When the federal parliament plans to reconvene on February 6, 2025, the focus will likely be on implementing the newly passed electoral laws and addressing the political rift with Jubaland.