MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Sunday signed the country’s amended constitution, formalizing changes that have sparked political controversy.
President Mohamud, flanked by the leaders of both parliamentary houses, enacted the new constitution amid rising tensions over electoral procedures and constitutional amendments.
He has pushed to finalize the constitution and implement one-person, one-vote elections, viewing the move as a victory over opposition forces.
“The completion of the constitution is a historic step that strengthens governance, unity, and the country’s democratic system,” he said during a dinner honoring lawmakers.
He said the constitution will serve as a foundation for building government institutions, protecting citizens’ rights, and promoting rule-of-law accountability.
That same evening, House Speaker Sheikh Aden Madobe announced the constitution’s enactment and said parliament added a one-year extension to its implementation timeline.
Opposition politicians from the Federal Government, Jubbaland, and Puntland rejected the new constitution, raising concerns about potential instability and a political standoff.
Somalia is now at a sensitive political crossroads, with disputes over elections, constitutional changes, and ongoing humanitarian crises caused by severe drought.
