Somalia's parliamentary speaker, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, has highlighted the country's progress in democratic transition during the 153rd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Tanzania. The conference, which formally opened in Arusha, brings together parliamentarians from around the world to discuss democratic governance and global challenges. Nur, also known as Jama, expressed gratitude to the Tanzanian government and people for hosting the event.
In his speech, Nur outlined Somalia's vision for an independent, transparent, and inclusive parliament that is accessible to citizens and plays a central role in state-building and democratic development. He emphasized the importance of strengthening state institutions, political dialogue, and public participation in consolidating Somalia's democratic system. Nur pointed to recent direct local elections held in Mogadishu, South West, Hirshabelle, and Galmudug states as evidence of progress in the democratic process.
The IPU assembly provides a platform for parliamentarians to discuss issues affecting democratic governance and international cooperation. Nur's participation comes as Somalia navigates a politically sensitive transition, with debates over elections, constitutional reforms, and the strengthening of federal institutions remaining central to the country's political agenda. The speaker's address was well-received, with many delegates welcoming Somalia's efforts to build a democratic system.
Nur emphasized that parliament must be an institution that protects the interests of the Somali people, strengthens public confidence in national institutions, and holds the government accountable. He stressed the importance of cooperation among parliaments around the world in building a peaceful, developed, and prosperous Somalia. The speaker's message resonated with delegates, who acknowledged the challenges facing Somalia's democratic transition.
The 153rd IPU Assembly in Tanzania brings together over 1,500 parliamentarians from around 140 countries. The conference will discuss various issues, including sustainable development, human rights, and climate change. Somalia's participation in the assembly demonstrates its commitment to engaging with the international community and learning from best practices in democratic governance.
According to a statement issued after Nur's address, the speaker's speech highlighted Somalia's progress in introducing direct elections at the local level. Electoral processes are continuing in other parts of the country, with the aim of consolidating Somalia's democratic system. The country's democratic transition has been supported by various international partners, who have provided technical assistance and financial support.
The IPU conference in Tanzania will conclude with a series of resolutions and recommendations aimed at strengthening parliamentary institutions and promoting democratic governance. Somalia's participation in the conference has provided a valuable opportunity for the country's parliamentarians to engage with their international counterparts and share experiences in building a democratic system. Key outcomes from the conference are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Key points
- Somalia's parliamentary speaker Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur emphasizes the importance of strengthening state institutions and political dialogue in consolidating the country's democratic system.
- The 153rd IPU Assembly in Tanzania brings together parliamentarians from around the world to discuss democratic governance and global challenges.
- Somalia's participation in the IPU conference demonstrates its commitment to engaging with the international community and learning from best practices in democratic governance.
