Somali Judges Forum Responds to AJJF Statement, Reaffirms Judicial Independence

Mogadishu, (SONNA) – The Somali Judges Forum has responded to a statement issued by the African Judges and Jurists Forum (AJJF) concerning recent developments affecting Somalia’s judiciary, reaffirming its commitment to judicial independence and the protection of judicial officers.

In its statement, the Forum said that comments on sensitive constitutional matters should be based on verified facts, an accurate understanding of the applicable legal framework and due consideration of Somalia’s institutional and political context.

The Forum noted that the AJJF statement appeared to overlook Somalia’s transitional constitutional arrangements and the fact that key judicial institutions, including the High Council of the Judiciary, have not yet been fully constituted.

It also disputed the chronology presented in the AJJF statement, clarifying that the removal of the Chief Justice was announced on November 4, 2026, while the Supreme Court delivered its ruling concerning the terms of office of the President, Federal Parliament and Federal Government on November 5, 2026. The Forum said the removal was therefore announced before the ruling, contrary to the AJJF’s account.

The Forum stated that the former Chief Justice was removed under domestic law through the same transitional process used for his appointment, in accordance with the Judiciary Service framework and the 2012 Provisional Constitution.

It further noted that the Council of Ministers had approved four nominees to the High Council of the Judiciary and referred their nominations to Parliament for the completion of the required procedures.

Reaffirming its position on judicial independence and respect for court judgments, the Forum said any challenge to or review of court decisions should be handled by the competent legal authorities. It also rejected unwarranted political interference and disputes that undermine the administration of justice.

The Forum said it takes credible allegations of intimidation, detention, harassment or unlawful interference involving judicial officers seriously and called for such claims to be properly investigated. However, it cautioned against treating allegations as established facts without verification.

The Somali Judges Forum called for accuracy, restraint and a balanced assessment of Somalia’s constitutional circumstances, stressing the importance of preserving public confidence in the fairness, impartiality and integrity of the judiciary.