Baashe Yuusuf issues new statement and insists...

Mogadishu (Caasimada Online) — The former Chief Justice of Somalia, Baashe Yuusuf Axmed, who was removed from office by President Xasan Sheekh Maxamuud, has today issued a new statement regarding the tension arising from his recent dismissal.

Baashe emphasized that he will continue the work of the Supreme Court, fulfilling the national duties he was sworn to, and working towards the advancement of justice.

“No one is above the law. The constitution must prevail over any power that is exercised unlawfully, and the supremacy of the law must overcome the judgment of any individual. Our decision does not waver: we uphold our oath, fulfill our duties, and serve justice without fear or bias,” said Baashe Yuusuf Axmed.

He also pointed out that the threats directed at him will never prevent him from fulfilling his work obligations, stating that he is committed to defending the independence of the judiciary, upholding the constitution, and protecting human rights.

He further stressed that he cannot be compelled to comply with anything that contradicts the law and the constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

“Threats, intimidation, and coercion cannot prevent us from fulfilling our duties to uphold justice. The threats to our lives will not silence us, and we cannot be forced to comply with illegality. We stand firmly in defense of the independence of the judiciary, the constitution, and human rights,” he added.

The Dispute Over Dismissal

President Xasan Sheekh Maxamuud removed Baashe Yuusuf Axmed from office on November 4, appointing Lawyer Ibraahim Iidle Suleymaan as his replacement.

The Presidency stated that the action was due to complaints from judges, court staff, and legal professionals regarding the transparency and fairness of the judicial system.

The President indicated that a comprehensive reform of the judicial institutions is necessary to provide the public with reliable justice.

However, the Supreme Court announced the following day that the removal of Baashe was invalid. It argued that the President did not have the authority to unilaterally remove the chairman, describing the action as an obstruction to a constitutional case pending before the court.

This case was related to amendments to the constitution and the term limits of federal institutions. The court ruled that the terms had expired, and elections should be held within 90 days.

The Office of the Attorney General rejected the ruling on November 6, arguing that it lacked a legal basis. The office also stated that the court had not initially decided on the government's objection to the court's authority to hear the case and the procedures followed.

While this dispute is ongoing, Xasan Sheekh participated in the swearing-in of Ibraahim Iidle Suleymaan.

The President urged the new chairman to uphold the law, the independence of the judiciary, and equal justice. The event was attended by the Prime Minister, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, the First Deputy Chairman of the Upper House, and the Minister of Justice and Constitution.