MOGADISHU — A joint session of Somalia’s Parliament erupted into chaos on Wednesday, resulting in physical confrontations between lawmakers and the abrupt suspension of proceedings.
The disorder began after Speaker Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur (Madobe) attempted to introduce an unexpected agenda containing proposed amendments to five chapters of the nation’s Provisional Constitution.
Fears of Term Extension
Opposition lawmakers immediately disrupted the session, accusing the leadership of attempting to rush through amendments that would permit a two-year extension of the parliament’s term, which is currently set to expire in May. The presidential term is scheduled to conclude in June.
Legislators opposed to the move tore up agenda papers, shouted slogans, and blew whistles, bringing the proceedings to a halt.
Physical Altercation
Video footage circulated on social media captured the severity of the tension, showing the Minister of Internal Security, Abdullahi Sheikh Ismail (Fartag), who is also a member of the Upper House, engaging in a fistfight with opposition MP Hassan Abdi Ismail “Firinbi.”
It remains unclear exactly how the scuffle began, but the incident highlights the deepening political divisions over the constitutional review process led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
Deepening Crisis
Opposition blocs, along with the leaders of the Federal Member States of Jubaland and Puntland, have already called for the nullification of previous constitutional changes, arguing they were implemented without adequate consensus.
Speaker Madobe eventually adjourned the session amid the uproar, warning that disciplinary measures would be taken against those responsible for the disruptions. No date has been set for the resumption of deliberations.
