Mogadishu (WDN) — More than 105 members of Somalia’s bicameral Federal Parliament have issued a stark warning over what they describe as a deepening constitutional and political crisis following the expiration of key state institutions.
In a strongly worded statement, the lawmakers confirmed that the 11th Federal Parliament formally ceased to exist on April 14, 2026, after completing its constitutionally mandated four-year term under Article 60(1). As of April 15, they stressed, the body no longer holds legal authority and can only function in a limited caretaker capacity pending the formation of a new parliament.
The statement directly implicates Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, accusing his administration of failing to deliver a consensus-based electoral process to constitute the next legislature. Lawmakers warned that if no political settlement is reached before May 15, 2026—the constitutional end of the presidential term—the country risks entering a phase of full constitutional illegitimacy.
“The country is now facing a constitutional vacuum,” the statement warned, describing a situation that threatens the very foundation of state authority, national security, and Somalia’s standing with international partners.
The MPs emphasized that, with its mandate expired, the current parliamentary leadership lacks any legal basis to convene sessions, pass legislation, or issue binding decisions. Any such actions, they argued, would be constitutionally invalid and risk further eroding institutional legitimacy.
The group also issued a pointed appeal to the international community, urging external partners to support an inclusive, negotiated political settlement rather than actions that could deepen the crisis. They stressed that future engagement must prioritize constitutional order, credible elections, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
Domestically, the lawmakers called on the Somali public to remain vigilant against any unconstitutional measures, warning that violations of the agreed political framework could accelerate instability and undermine national unity.
Taken together, the statement reflects a political environment entering a critical and uncertain phase—one in which delays in resolving electoral disputes could trigger far-reaching consequences for Somalia’s fragile state-building process.
WardheerNews
