Wayne Lumbasi
Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has signed Somalia’s amended federal constitution into law, marking a significant political development for the Horn of Africa nation as it seeks to strengthen its governance framework after years of operating under a provisional charter. The move follows the approval of the constitutional changes by Somalia’s bicameral parliament, bringing to an end a long-running process aimed at completing the country’s constitutional review and providing a clearer legal foundation for its federal system.
The new constitution replaces the provisional framework that had guided Somalia since 2012, a period during which the country was rebuilding its state institutions after decades of conflict and political instability. By formally adopting the revised document, the government hopes to establish a more stable structure for governance, clarify the distribution of powers between national institutions and reinforce the legal protections for citizens.
Among the key provisions in the revised constitution are changes to the country’s electoral system and the structure of government. The amendments outline plans for a shift toward a broader voting system in which citizens would directly elect members of parliament, while the president will continue to be chosen by lawmakers. The reforms are also intended to clarify the roles of the presidency, parliament and the prime minister’s office in managing the country’s political affairs.
The constitutional changes also extend the terms of office for both the president and members of parliament from four years to five years. This adjustment could result in a delay to upcoming elections as authorities work to align the electoral calendar with the new framework and prepare the institutions required to implement the reforms. Supporters say the changes are intended to allow more time for political stabilization and institutional development.
However, the amendments have sparked debate within the country, with some opposition figures and regional leaders raising concerns about the process used to pass the changes and the potential impact on the balance of power between the federal government and regional administrations. Critics argue that broader consultations should have been conducted before finalizing the constitutional revisions.
Despite the criticism, the signing of the new constitution is being presented by the government as a historic milestone in Somalia’s political transition. The new legal framework is expected to guide the country’s governance as it continues efforts to rebuild institutions, strengthen federal relations and confront ongoing security challenges posed by the militant group Al‑Shabaab.
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