Somalia Marks Historic Milestone with Signing of New Federal Constitution

Mogadishu, March 9, 2026 — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has formally signed the newly amended Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia into law, ending more than a decade of governance under a provisional framework.

The signing ceremony took place on March 8 at the Presidential Palace, with the speakers of both houses of the Federal Parliament in attendance. In a statement accompanying images from the event, President Mohamud described the occasion as a historic step that concludes the long review process, strengthens state institutions, safeguards citizens’ rights, and paves the way for a more stable democratic future.

The document, approved by Parliament in a joint session earlier in the week, replaces the 2012 provisional constitution adopted during the country’s post-conflict reconstruction. Key changes include extending the terms of the president and parliament from four to five years, shifting toward direct public elections for lawmakers while maintaining parliamentary selection of the president, and reinforcing federal governance structures.

Government officials hailed the move as essential for institutional stability amid ongoing security and humanitarian challenges. The president emphasized immediate implementation to build a solid legal foundation for Somalia’s progress.

The development has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters view it as a necessary advancement in state-building after years of transitional arrangements. Critics, including opposition figures and some former leaders, have raised concerns over the process, questioning the level of national consensus, the exclusion of certain voices during parliamentary sessions, and the implications for federal unity and upcoming elections originally anticipated in May.

As Somalia transitions to this new constitutional era, the focus now turns to effective rollout and addressing lingering political divisions to ensure the framework delivers lasting stability and inclusive governance for all Somalis.