By Abdiqani Haji Abdi

On March 19, 2024, 71 members of both houses of the Federal Parliament of Somalia, including Senator Abdi Awale Qaybdiid, gathered in Mogadishu to express strong opposition to the proposed amendments to the interim constitution. The group argued that the proposal was not an amendment but the introduction of a new constitution. This move followed similar opposition from former presidents and other senior political figures.

Senator Qaybdiid attended the parliamentary session where the constitutional amendments were discussed. During the meeting, he emphasized the need for a transparent and legal process in any constitutional revisions. He firmly stated that the constitutional committee did not have the authority to unilaterally discard or alter the constitution. Expressing concerns about the legitimacy of the process, he called for any modifications to be carried out in line with the legal framework and with broad national consensus.

In addition to his concerns about the constitutional amendments, Senator Qaybdiid raised issues with the current political structure in Somalia. He criticized the deteriorating system of the presidency and vice presidency, urging urgent reforms to ensure stability and effective governance. His comments underscored ongoing debates regarding the balance of power and the future trajectory of Somalia’s political system.

Despite his earlier reservations, Senator Qaybdiid unexpectedly voted in favor of the constitutional amendments on March 24, 2024, during a joint meeting held at Villa Hargeisa. Members of parliament from both houses of the Federal Republic of Somalia passed the amendments, signaling a significant shift in the country’s governance framework.

On February 3, 2025, Senator Qaybdiid once again spoke to the press, rejecting the Federal Government of Somalia’s proposed “one person, one vote” election process, which is set to be implemented in 2026. He emphasized that “Only an agreed-upon national election will take place in Somalia.” He further urged both houses of parliament to remain vigilant and avoid following the wrong path, echoing his usual calls for caution regarding Somalia’s political trajectory. Notably, Senator Qaybdiid, who previously served as the Somali Police Commissioner, is the first senator to openly oppose the controversial election process.

The Federal Government has announced plans to implement the “one person, one vote” system in parts of the country, excluding the Puntland Regional Government—Somalia’s first regional administration, established in 1998—and Jubaland Federal Member State.

Qaybdiid’s remarks come as the federal government pushes for the election process to move forward, including extending the terms of office for state leaders, which it describes as a necessary step for electoral reform and the transition to a more inclusive system.

Senator Qaybdiid is widely regarded as a politician known for not always honoring his word. He frequently uses press statements to extract favors from the sitting president, further cementing his reputation as a man of many faces.

Abdiqani Haji Abdi
Email: Hajiabdi0128@gmail.com