MOGADISHU–The Speaker of Somalia’s Lower House of Parliament, Mr. Adan Mohamed Nur, also known as Adan Madobe, announced on Thursday that the term of government agencies in Somalia will be extended by one year after the approval of the new constitution by a joint parliamentary session. This new constitution clearly states that the term in office for government institutions is five years. Mr. Nur emphasized that the parliament and other government institutions will operate in accordance with the national constitution. He declared the previous constitution null and void, stating, “The parliament will function in accordance with the new constitution and will remain in office.” He urged absent MPs to attend upcoming sessions in order to continue legislative work and other tasks outlined in the new constitution. He added, “During the remaining sessions, we will discuss important issues related to state-building. I will also give MPs a long recess to worship. Those who have been banned from attending sessions are encouraged to attend the upcoming ones.” However, this decision has sparked controversy as some opposition politicians accuse the government of using the constitutional amendment to extend their term in office. Lawmaker Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame stated that the opposition had previously warned that the main purpose of amending the constitution was to allow for a term extension. He also harshly criticized the timing of the announcement, stating that the country is currently facing a severe drought and dire humanitarian situation.
