Somalia Penal Code Reform Targets Cybercrime and Emerging Digital Offences

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia is seeking to modernise its decades-old Penal Code to address emerging forms of crime, particularly offences involving digital technology and information systems, as part of broader efforts to strengthen the country’s justice system.

The proposed reforms were discussed during a meeting between Speaker of the House of the People Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur Jama and Parliament’s Committee on Judiciary, Endowments and Religious Affairs, attended by Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs Hassan Moallim Mohamud.

Discussions centred on a draft Penal Code currently before Parliament, with lawmakers examining how the legislation can be updated to reflect Somalia’s changing social, economic and technological landscape.

A major focus is the need for legal provisions addressing crimes associated with modern technology, including offences involving digital platforms and information systems, which have become increasingly relevant as Somalia expands its use of digital services.

Somalia’s existing Penal Code dates back to 1962, making it one of the country’s longstanding legal frameworks. Its reform has been a subject of discussion as authorities seek to strengthen the administration of justice and address offences that were not envisaged when the legislation was introduced.

Speaker Jama said updating the law was essential to strengthening justice, protecting citizens’ rights, maintaining security and ensuring public order.

He stressed the importance of establishing a legal framework capable of responding to contemporary challenges while remaining relevant to the country’s future needs.

The proposed changes come as Somalia continues efforts to reform its judicial institutions and strengthen the rule of law following decades of conflict and institutional disruption.

Modernising criminal legislation is also expected to raise questions about how new offences are defined, the powers granted to law enforcement agencies and the legal safeguards needed to protect individual rights.

The discussions form part of a wider legislative reform process intended to align Somalia’s laws with changing national circumstances and improve the effectiveness of its justice system.

Parliament has not announced a timetable for completing its review or holding a final vote on the proposed Penal Code.