Somalia Responds to UN Human Rights Experts, Defends Judicial Transition

Mogadishu, (SONNA) – Somalia’s Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs has responded to concerns raised by United Nations human rights experts over developments in the country’s judiciary, reaffirming the government’s commitment to judicial independence, constitutional supremacy and the rule of law.

In its response, the Ministry said Somalia is undergoing a transition under the 2026 Constitution, noting that some institutions, including the High Council of the Judiciary, are yet to be established.

The government disputed the experts’ assessment, arguing that it was not given an adequate opportunity to clarify the issues before their statement was published. It also challenged the legal validity of recent Supreme Court pronouncements following the removal of the former Chief Justice.

The Ministry said the government would pursue the matter through lawful and institutional channels, without interfering with judicial functions, and reaffirmed its readiness to engage in dialogue with UN experts to strengthen the country’s institutions and uphold constitutional order.