The Chief Justice of Somalia, Attorney Baashe Yuusuf Axmed, today officially opened the Somali Judges’ Forum in Mogadishu, a two-day gathering aimed at strengthening the country’s judicial system and addressing challenges faced by judges nationwide.
Held quarterly, the forum serves as a platform for judges to share experiences, review progress on judicial reforms, and discuss priority issues affecting the administration of justice. This edition of the forum focuses on capacity building, enhancing accountability, and ensuring that judicial processes are more efficient, transparent, and accessible to the public.
Participants include chief judges from regional and appellate courts in Banaadir, judges representing federal member states, and judicial officers from various levels across Somalia. During the opening session, Chief Justice Baashe emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to modernize the judiciary, streamline case management, and strengthen professional standards among judges.
He also highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at improving court infrastructure, digitalizing case management systems, and enhancing training programs for judicial staff. “A strong and independent judiciary is critical for upholding the rule of law, protecting citizens’ rights, and promoting sustainable development,” he said.
The forum will include workshops, roundtable discussions, and strategic planning sessions over the next two days. Key topics include addressing delays in the judicial process, improving access to justice in remote regions, and enhancing collaboration between federal and state courts.
Officials noted that gatherings like the Somali Judges’ Forum play a crucial role in building trust between the judiciary and the public, fostering a culture of professionalism, and ensuring that Somalia’s legal framework aligns with international standards.
