By Goth Mohamed Goth
Hargeisa – The House of Elders (Golaha Guurtida), the upper legislative chamber of the Republic of Somaliland, has announced the formation of an investigative committee in response to the recent double murder of two men in central Hargeisa. In an official directive dated March 7, 2025 (Ref: GQ/JSL/GQ/2025), the House called for an immediate resolution to the case, emphasizing the importance of upholding Islamic burial rites and ensuring judicial accountability.
Core Resolutions:
- Immediate Burial:Underlining the principles of Sharia law, the House has mandated the prompt release of the remains of the victims, identified as Khadar Ibrahim Mohamed and Suldan Ahmed Abdillahi, to allow for respectful burial in accordance with Islamic practices.
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Expedited Investigation:The House has instructed law enforcement, including the police and the National Security Agency (Sirdoonka), to accelerate their investigations. Upon completion, the case is to be forwarded to a competent court for adjudication, which may include considerations for diyya (blood money) or other legal remedies in line with Somali traditions.
Background of the Investigation
This committee, composed of 19 esteemed elders and officials (full roster below), was constituted following:
- Consultations with Interior Ministry representatives regarding the status of the case.
- Meetings with the families of the deceased and key community elders.
- Briefings provided by the Police Commissioner and the Director of National Security.
The families of the victims have voiced their urgent call for justice, reflecting growing public concern regarding security in the capital.
Committee Leadership
The investigative committee is led by Mr. Abdirahman Sheikh Yusuf Sheikh Madar, with Abdinasir Aden Beegsi serving as Secretary and Omer Mohamed Farah as Deputy Secretary.
The House of Elders plays a critical role within Somaliland’s unique governance structure, which blends traditional and modern institutions. Its involvement in significant social or legal disputes highlights the moral and cultural weight of its rulings in the community.
Full Committee Roster:
- Abdirahman Sh. Yusuf Sh. Madar (Chairperson)
- Hassan Omar Ahmed
- Ali Mohamed H. Huruuse
- Aidid Abdi Mohamed
- Haji Abdirahman Osman Jama
- Ahmed Dahir Mahmoud
- Jirde Said Mohamed
- Ahmed H. Abdi Hussein Yusuf
- Ibrahim Awil Hussein
- Mohamed Farah Ahmed
- Dahir Ali Jama
- Ahmed Yusuf Sh. Ahmed
- Ibrahim Mohamed Aw-Ahmed
- Abdirahman Osman Hassan
- Awil Abdullahi Aidid
- Hayib Hassan Ahmed
- Mubarik Ahmed Jama
- Abdinasir Aden Beegsi (Secretary)
- Omar Mohamed Farah (Deputy Secretary)
Somaliland’s legal framework, which harmonizes customary law (xeer), Sharia, and statutory law, underscores the House of Elders’ commitment to balancing community expectations and formal justice processes amidst ongoing security challenges. 
