Speaker calls for an extraordinary session of parliament

There are reports of the possible resignation of the president, which the opposition has been demanding for months after failing to lead the country towards a timely and inclusive election at the end of his mandate.

News Keydmedia Online
28 April 2021

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Lower House chamber of the outgoing Somali parliament is set to hold an extraordinary session next Saturday at President Farmajo's request, according to the speaker.

The speaker Mohamed Mursal confirmed the session would take place, indicating that the outgoing leader will address the house to ask for a revision in the two-year extension that was widely rejected.

There are reports of the possible resignation of the president, which the opposition has been demanding for months after failing to lead the country towards a timely and inclusive election at the end of his mandate.

The call for the parliament session came after Farmajo has disowned his extension and announced he opted to go back to the negotiating table to find a solution to the current electoral stalemate in Somalia.

The shift in the president stance follows growing pressure from local politicians and the international community who demanded immediate elections to pick new parliament and a successor this year.

The opposition candidates have embolized fighters and took over parts of Mogadishu, in what seems to be preparation for an offensive to topple the current leader who is clinging to power and ignoring calls.

On Tuesday, Galmudug and HirShabelle who has been a close ally to the president have issued a joint statement announcing their rejection of the term extension, a decision welcomed by PM and the partners.

Mogadishu has seen waves of mass protests against the president's stay in office beyond his mandate over the past two months which have resulted in an escalation in violence.

KEYDMEDIA English