Somalia is currently undertaking a comprehensive review of its constitution, a crucial process that aims to ensure the nation’s legal framework reflects the aspirations and needs of its diverse population. This endeavor has been marked by an unprecedented level of public engagement, with consultations taking place across the country and extending to Somali diaspora communities worldwide.
The constitutional review is being conducted in a structured manner, with the process divided into ten chapters. The final chapter, the tenth, focuses on the modalities and procedures for the review itself, ensuring transparency and inclusivity throughout the process.
So far, four out of the ten chapters have been completed, with the remaining five currently undergoing public consultations. These consultations have taken place in various regions of Somalia, including Jowhar, Baidoa, Baraawe, Balcad, Las Anod, Galkayo, Cabudwaaq, Guriceel, and Dhuusamareeb, among others.
The public engagement has been comprehensive, involving diverse segments of Somali society. Religious scholars, women’s groups, intellectuals, youth, and representatives from various sectors have all been given the opportunity to voice their opinions and contribute to the constitutional review process.
In addition to the nationwide consultations, the process has embraced digital platforms, allowing Somalis living abroad to participate. Through the committee’s official website, members of the diaspora can access the draft chapters and provide their feedback online, ensuring their voices are heard in shaping the nation’s future.
The committee has also announced plans to visit various African, Arab, European, and American cities with significant Somali diaspora populations, further extending the reach of the public consultations.
Once the public consultations on the remaining five chapters are completed, the draft constitution will be presented to the Somali Parliament for ratification. Upon parliamentary approval and the President’s signature, Somalia will have a new, comprehensive constitution that reflects the collective input and aspirations of its people.
The constitutional review process has been hailed as a significant step towards strengthening Somalia’s democratic institutions and ensuring the country’s legal framework is inclusive, representative, and responsive to the needs of its citizens. By actively engaging the public, both within Somalia and abroad, this endeavor has the potential to foster a sense of ownership and commitment to the new constitution, paving the way for a more stable and prosperous future for the nation.
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