heated debate erupts in Somali parliament after MP questions status of Mogadishu as capital
Chaos in Parliament as MP Saadaad questions Mogadishu’s capital status.
A session of the House of the People turned chaotic today after a controversial statement by MP Saadad, a federal lawmaker from Puntland, sparked uproar and sharp reactions from fellow MPs.
The tension began when MP Saadaad, while delivering his remarks during the sitting, argued that Mogadishu “does not deserve to remain the capital of Somalia.” His comments immediately triggered loud protests, with several lawmakers shouting him down and demanding he withdraw the statement.
The situation intensified when an exchange between MP Saadaad and another legislator escalated, leading Saadaad to repeat his position that Mogadishu should not continue as the national capital, a remark many MPs described as provocative and divisive.
This incident comes only days after a separate public debate emerged following a dispute between two Senators over the ownership and jurisdiction of Mogadishu, a controversy that stirred significant discussion among citizens and political leaders alike.
Several MPs called on Saadaad to issue a formal apology, saying his remarks undermine national unity and contradict the constitutional status of Mogadishu as the capital of the Federal Republic of Somalia. They emphasized that such comments risk fueling political tensions at a sensitive time.
The heated argument and loud disruptions forced the Speaker to temporarily suspend the session as the chamber struggled to restore order. After repeated attempts, the leadership managed to calm the situation, allowing the House to proceed with its scheduled agenda.
