Leading figures in Somalia’s political opposition have issued a strong condemnation of what they describe as violent and unlawful conduct inside the country’s legislative chamber. The opposition blames members of the federal cabinet and the parliamentary police force for physically assaulting lawmakers and independent journalists during a recent session of the House of the People.
In a joint statement released late last night, former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and Member of Parliament Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame labeled the incidents as direct intimidation tactics and clear violations of parliamentary immunity, freedom of the press, and the dignity of national institutions.
“We strongly condemn the physical assault carried out by some cabinet ministers and the parliamentary police,” the statement declared, calling for accountability and adherence to the rule of law.
The opposition also directed criticism at Speaker of the House, Aden Mohamed Nur (commonly known as Aden Madobe), accusing him of making inflammatory and disrespectful remarks that reflect a failure to uphold the dignity of his office.
They further noted that Speaker Aden Madobe was previously removed from the same post in 2011 under similar circumstances, implying a recurring pattern of controversial behavior and leadership failures in parliament.
“We urge the Speaker to fully comply with the law and refrain from personal misconduct and actions that undermine public confidence and the dignity of national institutions,” the statement continued.
This condemnation comes amid rising political tension in Somalia, where disputes over parliamentary procedures, constitutional interpretation, and mounting political divisions have increasingly paralyzed legislative processes. The opposition’s remarks underline growing concerns over democratic governance and the protection of civil liberties within Somalia’s fragile political landscape.
