Somalia moves to implement new constitution after presidential assent

PresidentHassan Sheikh Mohamud has signed Somalia’s new Constitution, formally launching its implementation and marking a key milestone in the country’s long-running efforts to reform governance and strengthen state institutions.

The signing ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace in Mogadishu a day after the document was approved by both chambers of the Federal Parliament of Somalia.

Addressing the media after signing the document, President Mohamud described the moment as the culmination of a lengthy constitutional review process and a significant step toward institutional stability and democratic governance.

“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,” the president said.

“God willing, from today onward, we will begin its implementation,” he added.

The event was attended by senior government officials and parliamentary leaders, including Speaker of the Lower House Sheikh Aden Mohamed Nur and Speaker of the Upper House Abdi Hashi Abdullahi, as well as members of parliamentary committees involved in the constitutional review process.

Somalia has been operating under a provisional constitution since 2012, adopted during a transitional period as the country sought to rebuild governance structures following decades of civil conflict and political instability.

Over the years, the document has undergone a comprehensive review aimed at clarifying governance systems, strengthening federal institutions and defining the balance of power between the federal government and regional states.

Officials say the newly signed Constitution is expected to serve as a framework for future reforms, including improvements to the electoral system, the justice sector and federal governance structures.

The constitutional reform process has been widely viewed as a cornerstone of Somalia’s broader efforts to rebuild the state and strengthen democratic institutions.

The signing comes at a time when Somalia continues to pursue political and institutional stability while confronting security challenges linked to militant groups and navigating complex negotiations between federal and regional authorities.

Analysts say the finalisation of the constitutional review represents an important step in consolidating the country’s governance framework after years of transitional arrangements.

The government has been working closely with regional partners and international allies to strengthen institutions and rebuild public confidence in state systems following decades of instability.

With the signing now complete, focus is expected to shift toward implementation, including aligning national laws, policies and government structures with the provisions of the new constitutional framework.

Officials say this phase will be crucial in translating the document’s provisions into practical reforms that support democratic governance, strengthen the rule of law and safeguard the rights of Somali citizens.