MOGADISHU, Somalia – The House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia held its 19th meeting of the 7th parliamentary session in Mogadishu today, passing significant financial legislation and introducing new measures to address digital crime.
The session was overseen by the Second Deputy Speaker of the House, Abdullahi Omar Abshirow.
Ratification of the Accountants Bill
The Somali Accountants Bill was a central topic during the session. MP Mohamed Harun, Deputy Chairman of the Budget, Finance, Planning, and International Cooperation Committee, introduced a motion concerning presidential amendments to the bill.
Following the presentation, lawmakers proceeded to a vote. The amendments received substantial backing, with 140 MPs voting in favor, one against, and four abstaining.
This ratification represents a notable advancement in professionalizing Somalia’s financial sector and strengthening regulatory frameworks for accountancy.
Introduction of Cybercrimes Legislation
To modernize the nation’s legal framework, the House also conducted the initial reading of the National Cybercrimes Bill. Developed by the Ministry of Communications and Technology, this legislation seeks to create a legal structure to combat digital offenses and protect the country’s information systems.
Although the session limited proceedings to the first reading without opening general debate, legislators engaged Ministry officials with specific questions regarding the bill’s fundamental principles and potential budgetary requirements.
Call for Peace in Awdal
At the session’s commencement, Second Deputy Speaker Abdullahi Omar Abshirow delivered an official statement on behalf of House leadership, addressing recent occurrences in Borama, Awdal region. The Speaker issued a compelling appeal for peace and stability, encouraging the local community to maintain social cohesion.
Concluding the proceedings, the Deputy Speaker instructed the Parliamentary Committee on Information, Public Awareness, Culture, and Post to prepare the Cybercrimes Bill for its second reading, setting the stage for detailed discussion and eventual ratification.
