Somalië
On March 8, 2026, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud formally signed Somalia's new constitution into law, marking a major step in the nation's state-building process. The signing ceremony took place at the presidential palace in Mogadishu, attended by key government officials.
The new constitution replaces the provisional one adopted in 2012 and is intended to provide a stronger legal foundation for governance and democratic development in Somalia. It extends the presidential term from four to five years and stipulates that the president will be elected by parliament, while members of parliament will be chosen directly by citizens. The prime minister is appointed by the president but may be removed by parliament.
President Mohamud emphasized the government's commitment to implementing the new constitution, describing it as the foundation for strengthening state institutions, safeguarding citizens' rights, and advancing Somalia's democratic system. He stated, "Today marks the conclusion of the long journey of reviewing the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia, which for many years remained provisional and was recently approved by the Federal Parliament. God willing, from today onward, we will begin implementing it."
Despite the approval and signing of the new constitution, challenges remain. Some regional states, including Puntland and Jubaland, have rejected the revised document, arguing that the process lacked consensus and legitimacy. They have stated they will continue to recognize the provisional constitution. The government will need to address these concerns to ensure national unity and effective implementation of the new legal framework.
