Saturday February 15, 2025
Somali lawmaker Abdirashid Hidig speaks at a Himilo Qaran Party event, addressing political and security concerns amid the ongoing parliamentary standoff in Mogadishu.
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali lawmaker Abdirashid Hidig has warned that legislators will hold a parallel session if the House of the People remains closed, accusing political leaders of deliberately stalling parliamentary proceedings.
Speaking at a meeting with Himilo Qaran Party officials, Hidig said parliament was expected to resume on February 6. However, key officials have blocked its reopening due to concerns that a no-confidence motion may be introduced.
“It is unlawful for a few individuals to hijack parliament out of fear of a motion,” Hidig said. “If the chamber is not reopened, we will convene elsewhere. The motion is already signed, and those responsible will follow due process.”
The delay has deepened political divisions in Somalia, with opposition lawmakers accusing Speaker Sheikh Adan Madobe of siding with the executive branch to suppress dissent. Similar legislative deadlocks have previously paralyzed government operations, fueling tensions between the federal government and opposition parties.
Hidig also condemned the alleged misuse of Somali National Army (SNA) troops, saying security forces were being deployed against political opponents, particularly in Jubaland, where relations between the federal government and regional leaders remain tense.
“The government cannot weaponize security forces to silence opposition voices,” he said. “If this continues, there will be resistance.”
The parliamentary closure comes amid growing concerns over Somalia’s electoral process, with opposition groups and regional administrations demanding greater transparency in political decision-making. The next legislative session is expected to address key governance and security challenges, but delays have raised fears of prolonged instability.
With no official response from parliamentary leadership, it remains unclear whether lawmakers will push ahead with an alternative session, potentially escalating the political standoff.