Legislators

Somali Lawmakers Condemn Detention of Businessmen in Galkayo Galkayo (AX) — In a troubling development that has stirred both concern and outrage, federal lawmakers representing Somalia’s Southwest State have vocally condemned the recent detention of several businessmen from their region in northern Galkayo. This event, they argue, is not just an isolated incident; it strikes at the very heart of Somali unity and ethnic harmony. In a passionate statement, Member of Parliament Abdirashid Jilley revealed the deplorable…

Jowhar (AX) — In a significant step towards revitalizing democratic representation, Abdikarin Mohamed Diriye and Abdulqadir Mohamud Mohamed have both successfully filled the vacant parliamentary seats HOP097 and HOP098, respectively. This election, held on a Saturday that will surely be remembered, comes in the wake of the unfortunate passing of two significant figures, MP Khadija Mohamed Diiriye and MP Mohamud Mohamed Jimcale, affectionately known as Seeseey, in the year 2023. Abdikarin, who is not just a politician but…

Mogadishu (AX) – A recent proposal to deduct $500 monthly from the salaries of members of the Somali Federal Parliament has ignited considerable debate and opposition. This initiative, intended to bolster the Ma’awisley clan militia engaged in combat against Al-Shabaab in the Hiiraan region, was the central topic during a parliamentary session on Saturday. The motion, presented by the parliamentary leadership, aimed to channel financial resources directly to Ma’awisley fighters. These fighters are currently collaborating…

In a significant turn of events, Richard Koon, the leader of the Majority Bloc, has ascended to the role of Speaker of the House of Representatives. This decision follows a special election prompted by the resignation of his predecessor, Fonati Koffa, who stepped down on May 12. Koffa's resignation was not without controversy; it stemmed from an arduous series of legal disputes with the Majority Bloc that had plagued his tenure. Koffa voiced deep frustrations about the executive branch's alleged "failure" to adhere to a…

Political Tensions Escalate as Somali Lawmakers Call for Presidential Resignation Mogadishu (AX) – A significant development in the Somali political landscape has unfolded, as a robust bloc of 103 members from Somalia’s bicameral Federal Parliament has issued a striking joint statement. They are not just calling for change; they are demanding the resignation of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. This bold move comes amid serious allegations, including gross constitutional violations, abuse of power, and a perceived…

MPs Urge Immediate Halt to Military Operations in Beled-Hawo Amid Rising Tensions In a compelling statement that underscores the intricate and often tense political landscape of Somalia, members of Parliament have issued a clarion call to the Somali Ministry of Defense and the leadership of the Somali National Army. They have urged an immediate cessation of military operations in Beled-Hawo, warning against the potential repercussions of such actions. At the heart of this plea is a belief that high-ranking officials,…

The actions of a faction of lawmakers, dubbed the "majority bloc," are now under significant scrutiny within the hallowed halls of the Supreme Court. A highly anticipated hearing has unfolded, focusing on the persistent stalemate in the National Legislature. While the court has yet to issue a ruling, legal analysts are already drawing meaningful conclusions from the probing questions posed during the session. “How can a legitimately elected Speaker simply be disregarded?” Chief Justice Sie-A-Nyene Yuoh remarked,…

Political Turmoil in South West State: Calls for Reform Amidst Allegations of Repression Mogadishu (AX) — On a brisk Monday evening, the atmosphere in Mogadishu was thick with determination as lawmakers and political leaders from South West State converged to voice their mounting concerns. The issues at hand have been simmering for some time now: a combination of governance failures, accusations of political suppression, and claims of electoral deceit are casting a long shadow over President Abdiaziz…

Lawmaking is never a straightforward affair, and this reality couldn't be more evident than in Ghana's recent legislative tussle. The air is thick with tension as three sponsors of the controversial anti-LGBTQ+ bill reveal to Reuters that despite previous setbacks from legal challenges, the bill is making a comeback. The path of legislation resembles a winding road with unexpected turns. What sparked this renewed fervor? Escalating Measures As the law stands, those convicted of same-sex…

The controversial bill aims to escalate the prison sentences associated with same-sex relationships while also instituting penalties for those found to be promoting or sponsoring LGBTQI+ activities. It is worth noting that former President Akufo-Addo ultimately opted against signing this legislation into law, despite its initial passage by parliament in 2024. In a recent statement, former President John Mahama articulated a pragmatic approach regarding the proposed bill. He expressed a desire for a national consensus,…