Somalia’s Federal Parliament resumes after weeks-long deadlock

Somalia’s Federal Parliament resumed sessions on Monday, ending a weeks-long political standoff that had paralysed legislative operations.

The deadlock was sparked by an attempt to strip opposition MP Dr Abdullahi Hashi Abib of his parliamentary immunity. Speaker Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur (Adan Madobe) faced strong backlash over the move, including a motion to impeach him signed by over 100 lawmakers. Under pressure, Madobe was later forced to reverse the decision.

Monday’s session was chaired by Deputy Speaker Abdullahi Omar Abshirow, who outlined steps aimed at restoring normal parliamentary activity.

He said the House would strictly follow its internal rules to prevent similar disputes in the future. Abshirow also emphasised the independence of parliament and called for a clear separation from executive institutions.

“This parliament is independent in its decisions. It should not be seen as entangled with other branches of government. We must safeguard the unity of the House,” he told MPs.

The Speaker is currently in Algeria, where he delivered a speech at the Arab Parliament Speakers’ Conference in Algiers.

Although the terms of the agreement that allowed parliament to reconvene have not been made public, the reopening suggests a temporary political compromise has been reached.

The attempt to revoke Abib’s immunity raised concern among observers, who warned against using parliamentary procedures for political pressure.

Monday’s sitting began with debate on a draft bill concerning civil registration and civic status.