Somalia's Justice Minister Maalim hails landmark constitution as new path to stability

Somalia’s Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Minister Hassan Maalim has lauded the new Constitution of Somalia, describing its approval by Parliament as a historic milestone in the nation’s journey toward stability, good governance, and national unity.

The landmark document, now set for implementation, is widely regarded as central to restoring law and order after decades of political turbulence and conflict.

“The Constitution did not come easily. It has taken time, resources, and unwavering commitment from all stakeholders to craft a document that reflects the aspirations of the Somali people. Today, we lay the foundation for a just, secure, and prosperous Somalia,” Maalim said, praising the collaborative effort that brought the legal framework to fruition.

Members of the two Houses of the Federal Parliament of Somalia on Wednesday held a joint session and approved the official Constitution of the country.

Speaker Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur alias Aden Madobe told local media 186 members of the House of the People and 37 Senators from the Upper House had approved the Constitution by majority vote.

Analysts note that the new Constitution provides a robust legal backbone to strengthen public institutions, enhance accountability, and create a predictable framework for governance.

Among its key provisions is a firm separation of powers. By clearly defining the roles of the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary, the Constitution establishes oversight mechanisms designed to prevent abuse of office, ensure transparency, and uphold the rule of law.

A strengthened, independent judiciary is expected to adjudicate disputes fairly and restore public confidence in state institutions.

The federal structure of the country has also been clarified, outlining the distribution of authority between the national government in Mogadishu and regional administrations.

This provision is anticipated to reduce jurisdictional conflicts, streamline security coordination, and improve service delivery across the country.

Expanded human rights protections form a central pillar of the Constitution, safeguarding civil liberties, affirming equality before the law, and addressing longstanding grievances, thereby laying a foundation for reconciliation and inclusive development.

Policy expert Zachary Masinde described the approval as a transformative moment for Somalia.

“For a country that has long possessed vast potential but has been held back by historical injustices, this is a breakthrough. A coherent constitutional order is the first step toward unlocking that potential,” he said.

Among the specific governance provisions, the President will be elected by Parliament, while Members of Parliament are chosen directly by the citizens.

The Prime Minister is appointed by the President but may be removed by Parliament. No individual may serve as President for more than two terms.

Key officeholders, including the President, Prime Minister, the two Speakers of Parliament, and the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, are prohibited from holding dual citizenship, and all must declare their movable and immovable assets to the Auditor General upon assuming office.

Mogadishu is granted the status of a Capital Region. Residents will elect a local council, which appoints district commissioners and a Capital Council; the Capital Council, in turn, selects the Mayor.

While the Mayor manages administrative matters, the Federal Government will appoint a senior official responsible for security and political affairs.

The official term of the government is set at five years, establishing predictability in governance and administration.

As Somalia embarks on implementing the new Constitution, focus now turns to translating its principles into tangible reforms that deliver security, justice, and prosperity for citizens.

The historic approval signals not only a legal milestone but a renewed hope for a stable, unified, and forward-looking Somalia.