POLITICAL tensions escalated in Somalia as international partners urged stakeholders within the country’s political system to intensify efforts towards reaching an inclusive agreement, addressing concerns raised by recent developments.
‘The recent parliamentary approval of constitutional amendments represents a pivotal moment for Somalia’s democratic journey,’ stated a spokesperson for the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), reflecting on the significance of the unfolding events.
The tensions arose following the approval of four chapters of Somalia’s constitution by both houses of parliament on Saturday, marking a significant step towards establishing a new political framework in the nation.
However, the approval met with opposition from Somalia’s northeastern semiautonomous state of Puntland, which rejected the constitutional amendments, raising the prospect of strained relations with the central government in Mogadishu.
‘We cannot support amendments that threaten the autonomy and interests of Puntland,’ remarked a Puntland official, emphasising the region’s stance on the contentious issue.
Despite objections from opposition figures, including former Presidents Sharif Sheikh Ahmed and Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, the parliamentary vote proceeded, underscoring the deep-seated divisions within the country’s political landscape.
In a joint statement issued on Sunday, Somalia’s international partners, including the European Union, United States, and others, commended Mogadishu’s efforts to uphold international and regional human rights standards, including those pertaining to children’s rights.
‘We recognise the importance of an inclusive process in Somalia’s political transition and urge all stakeholders to engage constructively towards consensus-building,’ the statement read, echoing the sentiments of the international community.
The parliamentary approval of four chapters, encompassing areas such as freedom of expression and women’s representation, signifies a significant shift in Somalia’s political system. Under the new framework, the country will establish three national political parties and enable citizens to directly elect the head of state, who will have the authority to appoint and remove the prime minister.
Describing the parliamentary vote and constitutional amendments as ‘historic,’ Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud hailed the developments as critical milestones towards democracy, equality, and the strengthening of government institutions in Somalia.
‘I am pleased to sign the amended chapters of the constitution, which mark a significant step towards realising our vision of a democratic Somalia,’ affirmed President Mohamud, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering democratic governance.
The government heralded this moment as a pivotal step towards achieving democratic governance and fostering stronger institutions in Somalia.