On 02 September 2025, a public hearing on the ongoing constitutional reform process was held in Mogadishu, bringing together local law practitioners, legal advocates, university students, teachers, and community representatives. The session aimed to gather public views and ensure that the constitutional reform reflects the needs and rights of all segments of Somali society. The event provided an open platform for meaningful dialogue and participation from diverse groups.
The consultation meeting was organized by the Independent Constitutional Review Committee, in collaboration with the Parliamentary Oversight Committee on Constitutional Affairs and the Ministry of Constitutional Affairs. The organizers emphasized the importance of inclusive participation and transparency in shaping a constitution that strengthens governance, justice, and citizen rights. Participants were encouraged to present their concerns, recommendations, and expectations regarding the next phase of the constitutional review.
During the discussion, several questions were directed to the panelists, including issues related to the implementation of national disability policies and the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders such as the Cabinet, Parliament, and civil society organizations. Members of the Somali Disability Network (SDN) actively participated and raised inquiries concerning the enforcement of the 5% political participation quota for persons with disabilities, as mandated in Article LR29 of the National Disability Act passed in December 2024.
SDN emphasized that the 5% quota must be fully implemented in the upcoming 2026 parliamentary elections, ensuring that persons with disabilities secure 16 seats out of the total 330, including the 275 seats in the Lower House and 54 in the Upper House (Senate). SDN called for clear guidelines, transparent procedures, and accountability mechanisms to guarantee that persons with disabilities are meaningfully represented in the 12th Federal Parliament of Somalia. The Network also urged election stakeholders to work collaboratively to safeguard the political rights of Somali citizens with disabilities.
