The Somaliland Lawyers Association (SOLLA), represented by Advocate Mohamed Mahmoud, presented a comprehensive assessment of the current state of the judiciary. SOLLA raised particular concerns regarding the functioning of the Judicial Commission, the transparency of judicial appointments, and the enforcement of professional conduct standards.
Advocate Mahmoud emphasized that weak oversight mechanisms and ambiguous regulatory frameworks have contributed to inconsistencies in judicial decision-making and a perception of impunity among some legal practitioners. He further noted that the existing rules governing court administration and case allocation are often applied unevenly, undermining public confidence in the system.
To remedy these issues, SOLLA proposed a sweeping reform package that includes:
· Revision of judicial codes and procedural rules to ensure clarity and uniformity.
· Strengthening of accountability bodies within the judiciary to investigate misconduct and enforce ethical standards.
· Establishment of performance benchmarks for judges and court staff to improve service delivery.
· Enhanced training programs on legal ethics, human rights, and modern case management for all judicial officers.
“The time for incremental change has passed,” Advocate Mahmoud declared. “We need a fundamental restructuring of how justice is administered and how judicial officials are held to account. Only then can we restore the judiciary’s moral authority and ensure that every citizen receives a fair hearing.”
The Somaliland Women Lawyers Association (SOWLA), represented by Advocate Deeqa, took the floor to highlight the vital role that female legal professionals play in the country’s justice sector. SOWLA has been at the forefront of providing pro bono legal assistance to vulnerable groups, particularly women and children facing gender-based violence, inheritance disputes, and family law cases.
Advocate Deeqa noted that SOWLA is also actively engaged in mentorship programs and capacity-building initiatives aimed at elevating the quality of female law graduates and increasing their representation in the judiciary and legal practice. Despite these efforts, she pointed to two persistent obstacles:
· Chronic financial constraints – limited funding restricts the scope and reach of SOWLA’s legal aid services and advocacy campaigns.
· Lack of dedicated office and resource facilities – without proper physical infrastructure, the organization struggles to operate effectively and serve clients in a confidential and professional environment.
She appealed to the government and international partners for increased financial support and logistical assistance to enable SOWLA to expand its impact.
Hargeisa – Presenting before the Judicial Conference, the Somaliland Human Rights Commission (HRC)—represented by attorney Ms. Raaqiya—detailed its ongoing legal aid initiatives for vulnerable groups, including women, children, and economically disadvantaged citizens. While reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to bridging the justice gap, Ms. Raqiya delivered a sobering assessment of the barriers that continue to undermine fair and timely legal recourse.
Among the most critical challenges cited:
· Excessive case backlogs that stretch court proceedings over years, often exhausting plaintiffs and defendants alike.
· Prohibitively high litigation costs, which effectively price out low-income citizens from seeking redress.
· Prolonged pretrial detention, with many suspects languishing in custody without formal charges or trial dates—a practice that contravenes both domestic law and international human rights standards.
· Dilapidated and inaccessible court infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, where citizens must travel great distances to access basic judicial services.
To address these obstacles, the HRC put forward a suite of sustainable recommendations, including the digitization of court records to streamline case management, the expansion of legal aid clinics into underserved districts, and urgent investments in modern, accessible courthouse facilities. The Commission warned that without immediate action, public disillusionment with the judiciary would only deepen.
HARGEISA | 28 June 2026 – The Social Affairs Committee of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Somaliland convened a working session and information-sharing forum today with the NAFIS Network, aimed at deepening collaboration between the legislature and civil society organizations to advance socially responsive laws and policies.
The meeting provided a platform for in-depth discussions on NAFIS Network’s role in coordinating civil society initiatives, advocating for rights-based legislation, safeguarding the interests of women, children, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, and implementing community-driven development programs. Special emphasis was placed on the imperative of expediting key legislative instruments currently under consideration, including the Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Prohibition Bill, the Health Bill, the Sexual Assault and Gender-Based Violence Bill, and other legal frameworks designed to protect fundamental rights and social welfare.
Members of the Committee posed targeted questions to NAFIS Network officials regarding the organization’s operational portfolio and impact, receiving detailed and substantive responses.
In their closing remarks, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperative frameworks and information-exchange mechanisms to accelerate the drafting, review, and enactment of priority legislation—ensuring that Somaliland’s legal and policy environment remains firmly rooted in the protection of citizens’ rights and the broader public interest.
HARGEISA – The Somaliland Maritime Security Coordination Office (SMSCO), in partnership with the EUCAP Agency, convened the quarterly Somaliland Maritime Security Coordination Meeting in Hargeisa today. The high-level gathering brought together senior government officials, military commanders, and representatives from international organizations engaged in maritime development and security.
The session was formally opened by the Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. Maxamed Cabdiraxmaan Xasan, who underscored the strategic importance of cross-sectoral collaboration in safeguarding the nation’s maritime domain. He further highlighted the maritime sector’s vital contribution to economic prosperity and the protection of national interests.
Key attendees included the Director General of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, Mr. Liibaan Diiriye; the Deputy Commander of the Berbera Free Zone, Mr. Cabdirisaaq Ruush; alongside senior officials from security institutions, relevant maritime ministries, and EUCAP representatives.
Discussions throughout the meeting centered on tangible measures to enhance institutional coordination and operational synergy across government entities involved in maritime governance. Core priorities addressed included:
· Strengthening inter-agency cooperation to improve operational coordination among maritime security stakeholders.
· Expanding capacity-building initiatives through targeted training, technical exchange programs, and institutional skills development.
· Advancing the Blue Economy agenda to ensure sustainable utilization of marine resources while generating new economic and employment opportunities.
· Enhancing maritime domain awareness through improved data collection, analysis, information-sharing frameworks, and standardized reporting mechanisms.
· Updating legal and policy frameworks governing maritime administration and security to align with international best practices.
· Deepening international partnerships to bolster coastal protection, combat illegal fishing, prevent human trafficking, and address other transnational maritime crimes.
The meeting reaffirmed the collective resolve of all participants to reinforce Somaliland’s maritime security architecture and promote sustainable growth across the coastal economy.
HARGEISA, Somaliland – In a landmark briefing held at the regional headquarters, the head of the Maroodi Jeh Regional Prosecutor’s Office, Mr. Abdirahman Eid, delivered an exhaustive performance review covering the office’s operations, achievements, and challenges over the past ten years. The report, which encompassed all districts under the region’s jurisdiction, offered a rare and detailed window into the evolution of criminal justice administration in one of Somaliland’s most populous regions.
Presenting before an audience of regional council members, district officials, and judicial stakeholders, Mr. Eid painted a picture of steady institutional maturation. He emphasized that the office had transitioned from a modestly equipped entity into a more robust legal body capable of tackling increasingly complex cases—ranging from homicide and financial fraud to land disputes and gender-based violence. The briefing highlighted substantial progress in case throughput, with a marked reduction in prolonged pretrial detentions and a noticeable uptick in successful prosecutions.
Mr. Eid credited much of this success to enhanced inter-agency collaboration, particularly with the Somaliland Police Force and the regional judiciary. He also acknowledged the invaluable role of traditional elders in complementing formal legal processes through alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, which have eased the burden on courts and fostered community-level reconciliation.
Among the notable achievements cited were:
· Digital transformation of record-keeping and case-tracking systems, enabling greater transparency and efficiency.
· Recovery of misappropriated public assets through rigorous forensic investigations and civil litigation.
· Increased public legal awareness, driven by outreach campaigns in rural and urban settlements alike.
· Successful prosecution of high-profile corruption and organized crime cases, signaling a zero-tolerance stance on impunity.
Yet, the address was far from self-congratulatory. Mr. Eid candidly acknowledged persistent structural and operational hurdles that continue to undermine the office’s full potential. He laid out a forward-looking agenda with five priority interventions:
Infrastructure and Technological Upgrades – Urgent appeals for government and donor investment in modern forensic tools, secure digital databases, and reliable transport to enable rapid response to crime scenes across remote districts.
Penal Code Reform – A clarion call for legislative overhaul to align Somaliland’s criminal laws with contemporary social realities and international human rights covenants, particularly regarding juvenile justice, cybercrime, and terrorism-related offenses.
Strengthening Judicial-Executive Coordination – Proposals for formalized case-review committees to expedite evidence-sharing, reduce bureaucratic delays, and eliminate jurisdictional overlaps that often stall proceedings.
Witness and Victim Protection Frameworks – A proposed legal and operational shield for those who risk their safety to testify, alongside trauma-informed support services to encourage greater public cooperation with prosecutorial efforts.
Human Capital Development – A sustained investment in continuous legal education, mentorship programs, and exchange visits to peer jurisdictions, ensuring that prosecutors remain adept at navigating evolving legal landscapes.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Eid struck a tone of cautious optimism. “The past decade has laid a strong foundation,” he said, “but the next ten years must be defined by resilience, reform, and relentless pursuit of justice. We cannot afford complacency.”
The briefing concluded with an open dialogue, during which regional council members and district representatives expressed their appreciation for the office’s transparency and pledged legislative and logistical support to address the identified gaps. All parties converged on a unified resolution: to fortify the rule of law as an indispensable pillar of governance and social stability in Maroodi Jeh.
HARGEISA, Somaliland – In a landmark address delivered at the opening of the Somaliland Judiciary Conference in Hargeisa today, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Honorable Prof. Aden Haji Ali Ahmed, presented a sweeping account of recent judicial advancements, positioning the rule of law as the defining pillar of the nation’s sovereignty and social contract.
The two-day conference, which has drawn senior magistrates, legal scholars, prosecutors, and human rights advocates from across the Republic, marks a pivotal moment for Somaliland’s justice sector as it grapples with modernization demands while reinforcing public confidence in legal institutions.
A Record of Reform and Institutional Strengthening
In his keynote speech, Chief Justice Cali detailed a series of landmark achievements that have reshaped the judiciary’s operational landscape over the past year. Among the most significant developments, he cited:
· Digital Transformation: The rollout of an electronic case management system designed to reduce bureaucratic delays, minimize lost files, and accelerate the adjudication process—a move that has already begun to alleviate chronic backlogs in lower courts.
· Expanded Access to Justice: The establishment of new district courthouses and mobile legal aid clinics in remote and pastoralist communities, ensuring that citizens in previously underserved regions can now seek redress without undertaking arduous journeys to urban centers.
· Judicial Training and Professionalization: A sustained capacity-building program, conducted in partnership with regional legal institutions, that has equipped over 200 judges and court personnel with advanced training in constitutional law, human rights standards, and ethical adjudication.
· Anti-Corruption Measures: The introduction of robust internal oversight protocols and performance audits aimed at eradicating malpractice and fostering transparency within the judiciary’s administrative ranks.
“The Judiciary Is the Strongest Pillar of the State”
Speaking with palpable conviction, Chief Justice Cali declared:
“Justice is not an abstract ideal—it is the living, breathing foundation upon which our nation rests. The judiciary is the most essential pillar of the state. Without it, there can be no accountability, no security, and no trust between the government and the governed. We have made great strides, but our work is far from complete.”
He further emphasized that judicial independence is non-negotiable, reaffirming that the courts operate free from executive or political interference—a principle he described as “sacrosanct to Somaliland’s democratic identity.”
Addressing Persistent Challenges
While celebrating progress, the Chief Justice did not shy away from the formidable obstacles that remain. He acknowledged that the judiciary continues to grapple with:
· Resource Limitations: Chronic underfunding and inadequate infrastructure, particularly in regional courts, which hinder the timely delivery of justice.
· Case Volume Pressures: A rising caseload driven by population growth and increasing economic activity, which demands sustained investment in judicial staffing and technology.
· Legal Harmonization: The need to reconcile customary law practices with codified statutory frameworks, a delicate balance that requires ongoing legislative collaboration and community dialogue.
The Chief Justice called upon the executive branch and the international community to increase technical and financial support for judicial development, stressing that “a strong judiciary is not a cost—it is an investment in peace, stability, and prosperity.”
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Chief Justice Cali outlined an ambitious roadmap that includes:
· The full digitization of all court records within the next 24 months.
· The establishment of a dedicated Commercial Court to handle business disputes and bolster investor confidence.
· Enhanced cooperation with Interpol and regional bodies to combat transnational crime and human trafficking.
· The creation of a Judicial Ombudsman office to receive public complaints and further enhance accountability.
Conference Significance
The Somaliland Judiciary Conference, held under the theme “Justice for All: Building Trust Through Transparency,” is expected to produce a joint communiqué outlining concrete policy recommendations for the coming year. Delegates will participate in panel discussions on topics ranging from gender-based violence adjudication to juvenile justice reform and the protection of property rights.
A Defining Moment for Somaliland’s Statehood
Observers have noted that the Somaliland judiciary has made notable progress in recent years, particularly in enhancing its independence and capacity, despite operating under limited resources and without international recognition. The government has consistently prioritized judicial reform as a key component of its broader governance agenda, viewing it as essential to attracting foreign investment, maintaining social stability, and building a transparent and accountable state.
Chief Justice Aden Haji Ali closed his address with a resonant appeal:
“Let us be judged not by our words, but by our deeds. Let every verdict we render, every case we hear, and every citizen we serve speak louder than any proclamation. The people of Somaliland deserve nothing less than the full measure of justice, and we will not rest until that promise is fulfilled.”
Chief Justice Prof. Aden Haji Ali Ahmed concluded his address by reaffirming the Judiciary’s unwavering commitment to serving the people of Somaliland with integrity, impartiality, and dedication. He called upon all stakeholders to continue supporting the justice sector’s efforts to uphold the highest standards of legal practice and to ensure that justice remains accessible, fair, and timely for all citizens.
The conference continues through the 29th of June, with further announcements expected regarding donor-funded partnerships and new legislative initiatives aimed at cementing Somaliland’s judicial transformation.
Hargeisa – In a significant step toward environmental sustainability, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, together with senior officials from Solide Technology Company, officially inaugurated Greengate Africa and the Green Climate Fund in Somaliland.
The high-level event was attended by the Minister of Aviation and Airport Development, as well as the General Manager of Somaliland Ports Authority, underscoring the cross-sectoral importance of the initiative.
Discussions during the ceremony centered on the rollout of a green financing project designed to reduce air and marine pollution, while also exploring avenues for long-term partnership between public institutions and private stakeholders.
Speaking at the launch, the Manager of Somaliland Ports Authority, Mr. Ali Diiriye Ahmed, acknowledged that climate change has introduced formidable challenges, with tangible consequences for both the nation’s ecosystems and its communities.
“It is an undeniable reality that our country faces significant environmental hurdles, and their impact has been deeply felt,” he remarked.
Mr. Ahmed provided a comprehensive overview of how shifting climate patterns have affected Somaliland’s coastal and terrestrial environments. He stressed that proactive, coordinated efforts are essential to build resilience and curb further degradation.
He also highlighted that climate change remains a pressing global crisis, noting that while Somaliland is grappling with serious difficulties, many other countries are confronting even more severe climatic threats—reinforcing the need for international solidarity and local action alike.
The launch marks a milestone in Somaliland’s commitment to integrating climate resilience into national development, with the Green Climate Fund expected to play a pivotal role in financing eco-friendly projects across multiple sectors.
HARGEISA — The President of the Republic of Somaliland, H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi (Cirro), officially opened the 10th National Judicial Conference on [date] at the Maan-soor Hotel, describing his participation as both a privilege and a constitutional responsibility.
The high-level conference brought together senior leadership from Somaliland’s judicial bodies, the Judicial Commission, members of both Houses of Parliament, government officials, sitting judges, prosecutors, legal practitioners, representatives from international organizations, and other stakeholders involved in advancing the country’s legal framework.
In a keynote address that underscored the administration’s commitment to the rule of law, President Cirro reaffirmed that the judiciary and the dispensation of justice are cornerstones for safeguarding the constitution, protecting citizens’ rights, and preserving the integrity of statehood.
The President stressed that public trust in judicial institutions is essential to sustaining peace, stability, and social cohesion, while also facilitating international cooperation and driving national development.
He further reiterated his government’s unwavering support for the independence and functional balance of the three branches of government, emphasizing that the executive is fully committed to fostering a judicial system that is robust, transparent, impartial, and grounded in equity. He asserted that every citizen must have access to fair and unbiased justice.
Acknowledging the challenges facing the justice sector, the President stated that his administration stands ready to address institutional gaps and pressing needs, ensuring that the judiciary is adequately equipped to fulfill its mandate.
In his closing remarks, President Cirro called upon the judiciary and the Judicial Commission to uphold the principles of judicial independence, legal integrity, and professional dignity. He described the conference as a timely and vital platform for assessing current obstacles, reviewing institutional performance, and laying down national strategies to enhance the quality, efficiency, and credibility of Somaliland’s judicial and justice system.
The Executive Committee of Somaliland’s WADDANI Party convened last evening at the party’s headquarters in a high-level session attended by the majority of its members and senior party leadership.
Chaired by WADDANI Party Chairman, Mr. Hirsi Ali H. Hassan, the meeting covered a broad agenda, including a comprehensive review of the national political landscape, the party’s internal affairs, and preparations for the upcoming Central Committee conference—scheduled to take place in Hargeisa on the 30th of this month. A significant portion of the session was also dedicated to the presentation and deliberation of the party’s newly formulated Political Ideology document.
Opening the proceedings, Chairman Hirsi Ali H. Hassan briefed the committee on the general situation in the country, highlighting the recent historic and successful official visit of the President of the Republic of Somaliland to Israel. He further provided an update on the party’s current standing and the progress of ongoing restructuring and revitalization efforts aimed at strengthening the party’s organizational capacity.
The Chairman of the party’s Central Committee, Mr. Osman Ibrahim Nur (Afgaab), also delivered a report on the status of preparations for the upcoming Central Committee conference, which is set to take place this Tuesday at Hotel Maansoor. He confirmed that logistical arrangements are proceeding on schedule, that the majority of delegates have already received their documentation, and that all necessary preparations are nearing completion.
Revisiting the core agenda, Chairman Hirsi Ali H. Hassan offered an in-depth presentation on the Political Ideology document—the culmination of extensive internal deliberations. He noted that the draft was previously shared with the party’s wider membership during a public consultative forum held at Casood Hotel, a landmark event that positioned WADDANI as the first political party in the country to publicly articulate a comprehensive ideological framework. The forum also allowed for public input, much of which has since been incorporated into the final text.
Following robust debate and thorough analysis among Executive Committee members, the Political Ideology document—set to serve as the party’s defining hallmark and strategic compass—was put to a vote. The committee approved it by an overwhelming majority. The document will now be forwarded to the Central Committee for formal presentation and further ratification by its members.
