Mogadishu, Somalia – The Federal Parliament of Somalia is set to hold a joint session today to continue deliberations on the highly contested amendments to the country’s Provisional Constitution.
Parliamentary leadership last night notified members of both Houses to attend the session, which forms part of an ongoing effort to finalize constitutional revisions.
Agenda: Chapters 7 and 8 Under Review
Today’s session will focus on the second phase of debates on proposed amendments, specifically:
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Chapters 7 and 8
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Articles 109 to 119
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Articles 120 to 129
The joint session will take place at Villa Hargeisa in Mogadishu.
Political Divisions Deepen
The constitutional review process has sparked sharp political disagreements. Parliamentary leadership—reportedly backed by Villa Somalia—is seeking to conclude the amendment process ahead of anticipated talks between the Federal Government and the Somali Salvation Forum.
Recent parliamentary sessions have been marked by heated exchanges and objections from lawmakers opposed to the current approach.
The Joint Constitutional Review Committee has also reportedly split into two factions. Deputy Chair Senator Abdirisaq Osman and several committee members have expressed opposition to how the amendments are being handled, calling for broader consultation and consensus.
Parallel Political Talks
The developments come as regional leaders have arrived in Mogadishu for discussions with the Federal Government aimed at resolving key political disputes, particularly concerning the electoral framework and constitutional reforms.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is expected to hold a luncheon meeting today with leaders of the Somali Salvation Forum at the Decale Hotel, located within Mogadishu’s airport compound, to determine the venue and timeline for formal talks.
A key point of contention remains the location of the negotiations. President Hassan Sheikh favors hosting the talks at Villa Somalia, while regional leaders—including those from Jubaland and Puntland—have proposed the Xalane compound as a neutral venue, further delaying the launch of the conference.
Outlook
Today’s parliamentary session could significantly shape the trajectory of Somalia’s constitutional reform process, as political tensions persist over the country’s governance model and electoral system.