MOGADISHU, Somalia – Following a whirlwind of tension, Somalia’s Upper Chamber has welcomed Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama back into the fold. This turn of events comes after a weekend that saw his position in limbo due to alleged breaches of several Standing Orders and legislative norms, which led to his position being declared vacant by the assembly’s leadership.
The decision to remove Jama stemmed from Senate Speaker Abdi Hashi Abdullahi’s use of Standing Orders. These rules stipulate replacing any member who misses four consecutive sittings, and records indicated that Jama was culpable.
However, the political storm calmed on Monday night when Hashi opted to backtrack, quelling the tension that was bubbling over. Representing North Western State of Somalia, a region seeking autonomy yet part of the federal structure, Jama retains his senate role.
A senate communique confirmed that the core issues had been ironed out, allowing Jama to continue his senatorial responsibilities for North Western State of Somalia. It emphasized that in-depth discussions among stakeholders facilitated this outcome.
Deputy Prime Minister Salah Ahmed Jama acknowledged the settlement, pledging unwavering dedication to his senatorial responsibilities. He addressed his prior absences, insisting that his commitment to achieving peace and stability is steadfast.
“I am here to serve my people and this great Somali land as a member of the Upper House,” Jama emphasized in his statement.
The Senate Standing Orders were referenced in tandem with Article 59(a) of Somalia’s Provisional Constitution to justify Jama’s potential ouster. As the right-hand man to Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, Jama initially resisted his removal on constitutional grounds, but both him and the leadership have now acknowledged the matter’s resolution.
Amidst a backdrop of decades-long turmoil and the persistent Al-Shabaab conflict, Somalia is on a mission to bolster its governing bodies, including its parliament.
AXADLETM
