Somali president opens new parliament session with security and reform agenda
President Hassan praised lawmakers for passing a series of laws that he said have strengthened Somalia’s political institutions, enhanced national security and improved electoral processes.
Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Monday officially opened the seventh session of the country’s 11th Parliament in Mogadishu, marking the continuation of legislative work as the government pursues its political, security, and economic agenda.
In his opening speech, President Hassan praised lawmakers for passing a series of laws that he said have strengthened Somalia’s political institutions, enhanced national security, improved electoral processes, supported economic reforms, and restructured the Somali National Army. He noted that these reforms are crucial for guiding the country through its current transition.
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The President commended the Somali National Army and international partners for their joint campaigns against al-Shabaab, pledging that operations would continue until the group is fully defeated.
“The government and its army fight militants on many frontlines. As you know, Somali pilots are now flying our planes in these operations, which is a big step for the army and the country,” President Hassan told lawmakers.
Greater responsibility
His remarks underscored the growing capacity of Somali forces, who are gradually assuming greater responsibility for national security as international troops prepare to scale down.
On domestic governance, the President referred to the creation of the Northeastern regional administration in Las Anod, stating that it reflected the will of residents while emphasising the importance of cooperation with neighbouring regions.
“The establishment of the Northeastern regional administration does not mean neighbouring regions are no longer separate. The federal government will work to ensure coexistence and cooperation,” he said.
He emphasised that reconciliation, coordination, and investment in essential public services would be central to federal engagement with the new administration.
Addressing the sensitive issue of detainees, Hassan highlighted Somalia’s cultural traditions in handling prisoners captured during conflict.
“It is not Somali tradition to hold prisoners. Rather, it is our tradition to honour men captured in war and return them to their communities,” he remarked.
Drill first oil
The president also disclosed that Somalia is preparing to drill its first oil well in the coming months. While he did not provide details on the location or timeline, the announcement signalled a significant step in efforts to harness natural resources as a driver of economic growth.
On the political front, Hassan spoke about divisions between the federal government and member states such as Puntland and Jubbaland, which have distanced themselves from the National Consultative Council (NCC). He reaffirmed his commitment to dialogue and consensus.
“We are working hard to talk to the brothers who rejected the National Consultative Council. Responsibility requires us to reach out to those with concerns, and we will continue to do so. We have chosen to resolve conflict through dialogue and consensus,” he said.
The president’s comments reflected ongoing tensions between Mogadishu and regional administrations over power-sharing and federal authority.
Delivered under Article 90 of Somalia’s Constitution, which requires the Head of State to open each parliamentary session with a statement on government progress, his speech comes as Somalia balances reforms with pressing political and security challenges.
The session followed Hassan’s return from the UN General Assembly in New York, where he highlighted Somalia’s progress in governance, security, and constitutional development. It reaffirmed the country’s commitment to rebuilding state institutions after decades of conflict.
With the seventh session of the 11th Parliament now underway, lawmakers are expected to debate pending bills and new proposals tied to Somalia’s political, economic, and security roadmap.
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