Mogadishu(SONNA)-Dr. Maryam Qasim Ahmed has on Wednesday been elected Chairperson of Somalia’s Independent Human Rights Commission (IHRC following a leadership vote held in the capital, Mogadishu, marking a significant moment for the country’s human rights oversight body.
The election initially drew three candidates — Dr. Maryam Qasim Ahmed, Dr. Omar Abdulle Ulusow, and Farhan Mohamed Jimale. However, Jimale withdrew from the race and formally resigned his candidacy shortly before the vote.
Dr. Maryam, a seasoned public servant and human rights advocate, brings more than four decades of experience in human rights, social services, and public leadership. Speaking during her candidacy, she underscored her long-standing commitment to human rights protection and institutional reform in Somalia.
She has previously held several senior ministerial positions, including Minister of Health, Education and Social Services, and Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Management. Beyond government service, Dr. Maryam has worked with United Nations agencies and is a qualified Obstetrics and Gynaecology physician.
The Independent Human Rights Commission comprises nine members selected through a competitive examination process conducted in May 2025. The full slate of commissioners was subsequently approved by Somalia’s Council of Ministers in accordance with national legal frameworks governing independent constitutional bodies.
Dr. Maryam’s election comes as Somalia continues efforts to strengthen independent institutions and improve human rights monitoring, accountability, and advocacy nationwide.
