Maryam Qasim Ahmed Elected to Chair Somalia’s Independent Human Rights Commission

MOGADISHU — Dr. Maryam Qasim Ahmed was elected chairperson of Somalia’s Independent Human Rights Commission on Wednesday after a closely contested leadership vote in the capital, officials said.

Dr. Maryam secured five of the nine votes cast by commissioners, narrowly defeating fellow candidate Dr. Omar Abdulle Ulusow, who received four. A third contender, Farhan Mohamed Jimale, had registered for the race but withdrew before the ballot was held.

“This is a heavy responsibility that has been entrusted to me, and I ask God to make it easier for me,” Dr. Maryam said after the result was announced. “I did not campaign, and I do not even know who voted for me,” she added.

A long-time human rights advocate, Dr. Maryam brings more than four decades of experience across human rights, social services and public leadership. During her candidacy, she emphasized a commitment to strengthening human rights protections and advancing institutional reform in Somalia.

Her public service includes stints as minister of health, minister of education and social services, and minister of humanitarian affairs and disaster management. Beyond government, she has worked with United Nations agencies and is a qualified obstetrician and gynecologist.

The Independent Human Rights Commission comprises nine members selected through a competitive examination process conducted in May 2025. The slate of commissioners was later approved by Somalia’s Council of Ministers in accordance with national laws governing independent constitutional bodies, according to officials.

The commission is mandated to promote and protect human rights, monitor violations and advise the government on compliance with Somalia’s constitutional and international obligations. Its work spans documenting abuses, assessing adherence to legal standards and engaging with state institutions on reforms.

Wednesday’s vote gives the commission its top leadership following months of organizational setup. The tight margin underscored the competitive nature of the process among commissioners and set the stage for an agenda focused on oversight, accountability and expanding rights protections.

• Vote outcome: Dr. Maryam won 5–4 over Dr. Ulusow; Farhan Mohamed Jimale withdrew before voting.
• Background: Dr. Maryam has more than 40 years in public leadership and human rights, including senior ministerial roles.
• Mandate: The nine-member commission is charged with promoting and protecting human rights, monitoring violations and advising the government on compliance with national and international obligations.

In brief remarks after her election, Dr. Maryam signaled a focus on institutional strengthening and reform. The commission’s next steps are expected to center on consolidating its monitoring and advisory functions under the framework set by Somali law.

By Ali Musa

Axadle Times international–Monitoring.