Federal Parliament of Somalia concludes debate on five chapters of constitutional amendments

The two Houses of the Federal Parliament of Somalia have officially concluded deliberations on five chapters submitted for amendment to the country’s Provisional Constitution.

The session, which marked the 21st joint sitting of the 11th Parliament, was chaired by the First Deputy Speaker of the Upper House, Cali Shacbaan Ibraahim, alongside the Second Deputy Speaker of the House of the People, Cabdullaahi Cumar Abshirow.

The main agenda of the meeting focused on continuing discussions regarding proposed amendments to Chapter Nine of the Provisional Constitution, which addresses judicial matters, specifically Articles 130 through 154. Lawmakers from both Houses presented their views, recommendations, and concerns related to the structure, independence, and functions of the judiciary during the debate.

At the conclusion of the session, Deputy Speaker Cali Shacbaan announced that deliberations on Chapter Nine, as well as the previously debated five chapters, had been formally finalized. He stated that the parliamentary Constitutional Review Committees are now tasked with compiling and harmonizing the proposals and observations presented by members, paving the way for the next stages of the constitutional review and completion process.

Despite the procedural progress, political disagreements remain between the government and opposition groups over aspects of the constitutional amendment process and certain contested provisions. Ongoing discussions among parliamentary leaders and political stakeholders aim to reach broader consensus on the structure and finalization of the Constitution.

The review of the Provisional Constitution is considered a critical step toward strengthening governance, clarifying institutional mandates, and advancing Somalia’s state-building efforts.