UN Experts Condemn Removal of Somalia's Supreme Court Chief

United Nations human rights and judicial independence experts have strongly condemned the removal of Somalia's former Supreme Court chief, Bashir Yusuf Ahmed. The experts stated that Ahmed's dismissal, announced through a presidential decree on November 4, 2026, was inconsistent with the country's constitutional and legal procedures. They expressed concern that the decision bypassed required procedures, including a recommendation from the Judicial Service Commission and approval by parliament.

The UN experts criticised the swearing-in of Ahmed's successor, Ibrahim Idle Suleiman, on November 7, 2026, saying his appointment was rushed without following the required legal process. They warned that these developments could undermine judicial independence and the rule of law in Somalia. The experts called on the Somali government to reinstate Ahmed and ensure his safety, as well as that of other judges, so they can carry out their duties without pressure, intimidation, or political interference.

The UN experts also expressed concern over reports that security protection had been withdrawn from some judges, urging authorities to restore their protection and ensure security forces do not obstruct the work of the Supreme Court. They stressed that judicial independence is a fundamental pillar of governance, democracy, and justice, emphasising that judges must be able to make decisions based on the law without interference or pressure from other branches of government.

The intervention by UN experts comes amid a wider constitutional and political dispute over the terms of Somalia's federal institutions. The dispute follows the Supreme Court's hearing of a case concerning the extension of the mandates of the president and federal parliament. This has heightened tensions between the federal government and its opponents, with questions over constitutional procedures and the authority of state institutions remaining unresolved.

The UN statement adds to growing international attention on tensions within Somalia's state institutions and concerns over the future independence of the country's judiciary. The experts' statement was issued on November 12, 2026, and they reiterated the importance of upholding the rule of law and protecting the independence of the judiciary.

The removal of Bashir Yusuf Ahmed and the appointment of Ibrahim Idle Suleiman have sparked concerns about the potential for political interference in the judiciary. The UN experts' call for Ahmed's reinstatement and the restoration of security protection for judges aims to address these concerns and ensure the continued independence of the judiciary.

The situation in Somalia highlights the challenges facing the country's institutions as they navigate complex constitutional and political issues. The UN experts' statement underscores the need for Somalia's government to prioritize the rule of law and judicial independence, ensuring that the country's institutions can function effectively and without undue influence.

Key points

• UN experts condemn Somalia's removal of Supreme Court Chief Bashir Yusuf Ahmed, citing bypassed procedures.
• Experts urge Somali government to reinstate Ahmed and ensure his safety.
• UN statement highlights concerns over judicial independence and the rule of law in Somalia.