The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, today officially opened the 8th session of the Federal Parliament of Somalia, addressing a joint session of the House of the People and the Upper House on the general situation of the country, security, elections, constitutional review and foreign policy.
The President said that Somalia has entered a new phase based on strengthening government institutions, enhancing the capacity of the military and developing the country’s laws, noting that these issues are the basis for attracting international investment and enhancing Somalia’s reputation in the world.
In his speech, President Hassan Sheikh said that the government is planning large-scale operations to strengthen the fight against Al-Shabaab, saying that the government forces are better in number and quality than before, and their capabilities will be further increased.
Regarding the elections, the President defended the electoral process in Galmudug and Southwest states, saying that there were no flaws that undermined the process. He also reiterated that the Federal Government is committed to implementing the one-person, one-vote electoral system.
The President pointed out that the Federal Parliament is the legitimate body with the power to add to and amend the Constitution, saying that the government has emphasized that constitutional decisions are based on legitimate institutions.
Speaking on foreign policy, President Hassan Sheikh said that Somalia today is not just a country that asks for help, but a country whose views are heard in international forums, and plays a prominent role in regional and international cooperation.
The President also sent a message to Somaliland, saying that the Federal Government is ready for any dialogue that can lead to unity and consensus, and is committed to reaching any solution through dialogue, while avoiding conflict.
In terms of domestic politics, the President said that opposition is part of the democratic system, but he said that opposition that is not based on solutions and dialogue will not bring any results. He also stressed that taking up arms and insurgency cannot be a way to achieve power in the country.
The President noted that Somali scholars and experts from Somaliland played a key role in preparing the one-person, one-vote electoral process, stating that the process is based on Somali knowledge and expertise, and does not rely on external support.
The opening of the 8th session comes as the Federal Parliament faces a significant political agenda, including the election of the Speaker of the House of the People, electoral issues, and laws related to security and state-building. This session is also considered one of the last sessions of the 11th Parliament, as the Parliament still has two sessions remaining before the end of its term, as the President said earlier today at the opening of the session.
