Somalia's human rights minister says new constitution brings stronger rights awareness

Khadija Al-Makhzoumi has expressed heartfelt gratitude to lawmakers and government institutions following the completion of Somalia’s Provisional Constitution, saying the milestone will empower citizens to better understand their rights and uphold the rule of law.

Speaking after the decisive vote in the Federal Parliament of Somalia, the Minister of Family and Human Rights thanked Members of Parliament for what she described as unity of purpose in delivering a constitutional framework that belongs to the Somali people.

“Today is a great day for Somalia. We have fulfilled a constitutional duty that we swore to carry out, completing and finalizing the Provisional Constitution,” she said, noting that the process reflects years of commitment to rebuilding state institutions.

Al-Makhzoumi emphasised that beyond its legal and political significance, the Constitution will serve as a civic compass for citizens.

By clearly outlining fundamental freedoms, responsibilities and the structure of government, she said, the document provides an accessible foundation for Somalis to understand their rights, and equally, their obligations under the law.

“As a member of the Council of Ministers and as a Member of Parliament, it is an honor to see my role in Somalia’s state-building process reflected in this achievement,” she added, describing the vote as proof that collaboration among institutions can yield historic results.

The revised Constitution is expected to strengthen safeguards for women, children and vulnerable communities, a key mandate of the Ministry of Family and Human Rights.

It also clarifies the separation of powers, reinforces accountability mechanisms and defines federal–member state relations, helping to reduce legal ambiguities that have occasionally strained governance.

Analysts say the completion of the constitutional review marks a turning point in Somalia’s recovery from decades of conflict and institutional fragility.

Since the adoption of the transitional charter in 2012, the country has steadily worked toward refining its governance framework to reflect federal realities and democratic aspirations.

For ordinary citizens, the impact could be transformative. A clear and finalised Constitution not only protects freedoms such as equality before the law and due process, but also strengthens public confidence in state institutions.

Greater rights awareness, combined with consistent enforcement of the law, is expected to nurture a culture of accountability and civic responsibility.

With the Parliamentary process concluded, focus now shifts to implementation and public education.

For Al-Makhzoumi, the real success of the Constitution will be measured not only in legislative chambers, but in communities across Somalia, where informed citizens can confidently claim their rights while remaining steadfast custodians of the law.