Somalia’s Parliament Suspends Six Lawmakers Amid Escalating Constitutional Tensions

Somalia’s Parliament Suspends Six Lawmakers Amid Escalating Constitutional Tensions

Somalia’s House of the People has taken a new disciplinary step by suspending six additional lawmakers from parliamentary sessions, deepening an already tense political atmosphere surrounding proposed constitutional amendments. The decision follows disruptions during a recent joint sitting of both parliamentary chambers, underscoring the growing strain within the country’s legislative body.

The suspensions were announced by Acting Speaker and Second Deputy Speaker Abdullahi Omar Abshirow, who cited violations of the House’s Rules of Procedure, including Articles 14, 16, and 28. According to parliamentary leadership, the lawmakers’ actions during the joint session held on February 7, 2026, undermined order and obstructed legislative work at a critical moment for the country’s political process.

In an official statement, the House leadership emphasized that the move was intended to preserve security, discipline, and the dignity of parliament rather than to single out individuals for personal punishment. Parliamentary officials stressed that maintaining order is essential to ensuring that the legislature can function effectively and fulfill its responsibilities to the Somali public. The suspended lawmakers include several prominent figures, a factor that has further amplified political reactions to the decision.

Abshirow also warned that further disciplinary measures could be imposed if disruptions continue, calling on all members of parliament to respect established rules and procedures. The warning reflects growing frustration among parliamentary leaders as repeated interruptions have increasingly stalled legislative work and heightened internal divisions.

These latest suspensions come only days after a similar decision to bar another group of lawmakers, a move that drew sharp criticism from opposition figures. Together, the actions have added to already strained relations within parliament and fueled accusations that disciplinary measures are being used amid a broader political struggle.

At the heart of the dispute are proposed amendments to Somalia’s Provisional Constitution. The reforms have faced strong resistance from opposition lawmakers, political coalitions, and federal member states such as Puntland and Jubbaland, who argue that the changes could centralize power in Mogadishu and weaken the federal system. The federal government, however, maintains that the amendments are necessary to complete the long-delayed constitutional review process and to bring greater stability to governance.

As parliamentary sessions continue to be marked by disruptions, the suspensions highlight the depth of Somalia’s political divisions and the challenges facing its constitutional future. Whether dialogue or further confrontation will prevail remains an open question, but the coming weeks are likely to be pivotal for both parliament and the broader political landscape.