Mogadishu, Somalia – The Somali federal parliament was forced to call off its scheduled session on Wednesday after failing to reach the required quorum — the second such incident in just four days. The repeated adjournments have stirred frustration among citizens, many of whom are struggling to survive as the country faces one of its harshest humanitarian crises in years.
Lawmakers, who each earn a monthly salary of $5,100, were expected to debate several key national issues, including budgetary matters and legislative reforms. However, the persistent absenteeism of members has left the chamber largely empty, forcing the Speaker to postpone the sitting. Observers say the lack of seriousness from some parliamentarians is deepening public disillusionment with the political elite.
The United Nations recently warned that nearly half of Somalia’s population could face acute food insecurity by the end of this year, with millions relying on humanitarian aid to survive. Drought, inflation, and insecurity have left families across rural and urban areas in desperate conditions.
Critics argue that the contrast between lawmakers’ comfortable salaries and the suffering of ordinary citizens reflects a widening disconnect between government institutions and the realities on the ground.
It remains unclear when the next parliamentary session will be convened. For many Somalis, however, the bigger question is whether their representatives will show up — not just in Parliament, but in addressing the country’s deepening crises.