Somalia’s Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hassan Macallin, has welcomed the opposition’s decision to file a case with the Supreme Court challenging the procedures used for constitutional amendments. He stated that this move demonstrates confidence in the rule of law and the country’s judiciary.
Former Somali President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has submitted a petition to the Supreme Court, contesting the process followed for the approval of the constitutional amendments that took place on October 11.
In an interview with Dawan TV, the Minister expressed the government’s satisfaction that the opposition chose a legal path to voice their views regarding the constitutional amendments.
He noted that opposition is a right guaranteed by the Constitution, and that politicians are entitled to challenge government decisions or clearly articulate their own positions.
“We were truly pleased when we read the petition,” said Hassan Macallin, adding that the opposition’s action strengthens trust in the law and judicial institutions. The Minister stated that the legal challenge arose at a time when opposition groups had been distancing themselves from the Constitution; however, their decision to now engage through judicial institutions is a positive and encouraging development.
Hassan Ma’allin noted that the Supreme Court has referred the case to the Attorney General, who has, in turn, forwarded it to the Federal Parliament, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and the Independent Constitutional Review and Implementation Commission.
According to the Minister, the matter is currently before these institutions.
He emphasized that the constitutional amendments were prepared by the government and subsequently approved by the Federal Parliament, adding that the government will utilize its legal counsel to defend the process when the case is heard.
“We will defend ourselves through the law. We abide by the law, just as everyone else is expected to do,” the Minister said.
The Minister of Justice also touched upon a previous legal dispute concerning the elections in the Galmudug regional administration—which had been brought before the courts—though he noted that it cannot be directly compared to the current challenge regarding the amendments to the Federal Constitution. He expressed hope that many citizens would place their trust in the law and the judiciary, rather than resorting to other methods that could undermine the nation’s governance.
Finally, Hassan Ma’allin emphasized that the government itself is obligated to operate in accordance with the Constitution, and that all political factions must respect the rule of law.