The Somali Federal Parliament Approves Long-Contested Law + Photos

Mogadishu (Caasimada Online) – The members of the House of the People today approved by a majority vote the draft law on sexual offenses and moral misconduct, which was presented to the council by the Ministry of Family Affairs and Human Rights Development.

This law, which has long faced opposition, was ultimately approved by 132 members, while three members voted against it, and five others abstained, as announced by the Speaker of the House of the People, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur (Jama).

During the discussion of this law, all procedures for the approval of draft laws under Article 98 were followed, as mentioned in the report.

On the other hand, the Minister of the Ministry of Family Affairs and Human Rights Development, Amb. Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, thanked the leadership and the members of the House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia for the approval of the Draft Law on Sexual Offenses and Moral Misconduct. Khadija noted that this draft law has gone through various stages and has long been pending in the House of the People, praising the efficient manner in which the members fulfilled their constitutional duties.

Minister Amb. Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi, speaking on behalf of the Ministry and the Somali women who are victims of sexual violence, stated that the approval of this draft law is an important step in strengthening the protection of human dignity, community safety, and the rights of victims. She emphasized that this step is crucial for enhancing access to justice and protecting women, children, and other vulnerable individuals.

She also thanked the Human Rights and Women's Committee of the House of Representatives, Somali scholars, civil society, and all parties involved in the recommendations, discussions, and review of the legislative proposal. She noted that the cooperation between government institutions and society plays an important role in the development of laws that protect human rights and strengthen the justice system of the country.

Finally, Minister Amb. Khadiija Maxamed Al-Makhzoumi emphasized the importance of strengthening legislative efforts to protect the rights of women and children, support victims, and create a society based on justice, dignity, and accountability. She indicated that the Ministry of Family and Human Rights Development will continue its efforts to promote the protection of human rights and strengthen the laws that ensure the safety and dignity of Somali citizens.