Dispute Arises Over Deductions from Mostly Opposition MPs

Mogadishu (Caasimada Online) – Member of Parliament Yuusuf Gama’adiid, who is part of the House of the People of Somalia, has spoken about new deductions made from some members of the Federal Parliament of Somalia, mostly from the opposition, after they missed sessions of the House.

MP Gama’adiid, speaking to the media, stated that they have a significant debate regarding the manner in which the deduction of $800 was carried out, clarifying that they do not oppose accountability, but their grievance is about the way this action was implemented.

“$800 has been deducted from the MPs, and we have a significant debate about it. We accept accountability, but the manner in which it was done is wrong,” said Yuusuf Gama’adiid.

On the other hand, the Speaker of the House of the People, Cabdulqaadir Maxamed Nuur (Jaamac), who has received the complaints from the MPs, has called on those with grievances to follow the procedures outlined in the House's rules of procedure and formally submit their complaints, so that they can be informed of the reasons behind the deduction of their salaries.

This statement comes as the leadership of the Parliament had previously indicated that they would take action against MPs who are absent from the House meetings, in order to hold them accountable, as they have failed to fulfill their work obligations.

However, the absence of the MPs has affected the meetings of the Parliament, with the House experiencing challenges related to recurring quorum issues.

This situation has also led to the work of the Parliament being interrupted and delayed, which could pose a challenge to fulfilling legislative duties, discussions on the agendas before the House, and holding government agencies accountable.