MOGADISHU (SD) – The President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, His Excellency Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, officially opened the 6th session of the 11th Federal Parliament of Somalia today. He commended the Speaker, Members of the House of the People, and the Upper House for their significant efforts during the previous parliamentary sessions.

The President highlighted the ongoing operations to liberate areas still under the control of Khawaarij (extremists) in the country. He praised the Somali National Army (SNA), the Macawiisley (local clan militias), and the Puntland Dervish Forces for their sacrifices in strengthening security and defending national sovereignty. He also emphasized the threat posed by the Daesh terrorist group to maritime activities in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

“We stand in solidarity with the Puntland regional forces and the local communities who have dealt significant blows to the Khawaarij Daesh. This is a just war, and it is our duty to support our brothers and sisters in the fight to liberate and restore our dignity,” said the President.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud noted that the political agreements reached through the National Consultative Forum and the parliamentary approval of the first four chapters of the Constitution have paved the way for the implementation of direct elections. He called on Parliament to finalize the remaining chapters of the Constitution during this session to resolve the disputes that have hindered state-building in Somalia.

“Brothers and sisters, the Somali people are looking to us, and they have entrusted us with the responsibility to move away from the flawed clan-based electoral system. We must give them the opportunity to freely express their thoughts and cast their votes for their chosen representatives. It is a grave injustice to revert to the corrupt practices of appointments and indirect elections,” the President stated.

The President also mentioned the success of debt relief at the end of 2023 and the renewed focus on leveraging Somalia’s resources. He emphasized that the Federal Government of Somalia has not taken on any new debt during this period and is working to strengthen and consolidate the economy through taxes paid by Somali citizens. He commended Somali businesspeople and taxpayers for their commitment to the development and stability of the country.