Somalia Senate Warns 20 Senators Over Repeated Absence From Sessions

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia’s Upper House has formally warned 20 senators over repeated absence from parliamentary sessions, urging them to return to the chamber and fulfil their constitutional responsibilities.

The warning was issued by the Senate Committee on Regulations, Ethics, Immunity and Welfare of Senators in a letter dated August 26 to the leadership of the Upper House. The committee said it was acting within its mandate to monitor senators’ conduct and ensure compliance with the rules governing parliamentary proceedings.

The committee cited Article 81 of the Upper House Rules of Procedure, which requires senators to attend and actively participate in parliamentary sessions. It said persistent absenteeism could undermine the effectiveness of the Senate and limit its ability to carry out its legislative and oversight functions.

The warning was directed at Senators Abdi Ahmed Dhuhulow, also known as Dhag-dheer; Abdirahman Mohamed Mohamud, known as Farole; Abdisamad Yusuf Mohamed, known as Abwaan; Abdirisaq Mohamed Osman; Dahir Ayale Said; Dr Huseen Mohamed Dahir; Farhan Ali Mohamud; Fartun Abdikadir Farah Karama; Farhan Ali Hussein; Hassan Dahir Yarow; Hassan Idow Muhumed, known as Kobac; Leyla Ahmed Ismail; Maryan Farah Kahiye; Cabdi Cabdullaahi Xaashi, known as Goley; Prof. Abdi Ismaaciil Samatar; Saciid Sayid Shirwac; Samiira Mohamud Haji; Ahmed Mohamed Said; Abdihakim Moalim Ahmed Malin; and Salah Ahmed Jama.

The committee called on the senators to resume regular attendance and participate fully in Senate proceedings, saying it hoped the warning would be sufficient to encourage them to meet their parliamentary obligations.

The move puts renewed focus on accountability within Somalia’s federal parliament at a politically important time for the country. The Senate plays a central role in the federal system, representing the interests of Somalia’s federal member states while taking part in the consideration of legislation and other national issues.

Its role has become particularly significant as Somalia continues to debate political and constitutional reforms and prepares for the next phase of its electoral process. Parliamentary attendance and participation are therefore important to the Senate’s ability to scrutinise legislation, debate national policy and exercise oversight over government institutions.

The committee did not indicate whether additional disciplinary measures would be taken against senators who continue to miss sessions. Its warning nevertheless signals increased attention to parliamentary rules and the responsibilities of lawmakers as Somalia’s federal institutions navigate a period of significant political and institutional change.