MOGADISHU, Somalia – The political scene in Somalia is heating up with tensions brewing within the Senate. Senate Speaker Abdi Hashi Abdullahi announced that the seat of Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) Salah Ahmed Jama is now vacant due to his regular absence, which has sparked division among lawmakers.
Jama, an influential player in President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s government, is in hot water for skipping four consecutive Senate meetings, a violation of the Senate’s Standing Orders and the country’s constitution.
The Senate is eyeing Ibrahim Suleiman Idle as a potential successor to the DPM. Idle had previously vied for the position against Jama in past elections, as per Article 59(a) of the provisional governing document.
The Speaker’s office, invoking the 2016 Indirect Elections Agreement pertinent to the seats for North Western State of Somalia and northern territories, emphasized that any replacement must hail from past competitors.
Not everyone is on board, though. Senator Osman Obokar Dubbe, among others, argues that Jama’s extensive national commitments justify his absences, urging lenience due to his work for the benefit of the Somali people.
Dubbe accused the Senate Speaker of overstepping by trying to oust the DPM without sufficient investigation, stressing that Jama’s schedule should be reviewed, given his role as the right-hand man to Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre.
In response to the objections, the Speaker has paused the induction of Jama’s proposed successor due to the serious concerns raised by supporting senators. Analysts suggest this could disrupt activities in the Upper House.
Critics warn of future conflicts between standing rules enforcement and irregular legislative conduct should the decision swing in favor of keeping the Deputy Prime Minister in his seat.
AXADLETM
