MOGADISHU, Somalia – The House of the People of the Federal Parliament of Somalia convened its 19th meeting of the 7th parliamentary session today in Mogadishu, passing key financial legislation and introducing new measures to tackle digital crime. The session was presided over by the Second Deputy Speaker of the House, H.E. Abdullahi Omar Abshirow.
Ratification of the Accountants Bill
A primary focus of the session was the Somali Accountants Bill. MP Mohamed Harun, Deputy Chairman of the Budget, Finance, Planning, and International Cooperation Committee, presented a motion regarding the President’s proposed amendments to the bill.
Following the presentation, the Members of Parliament moved to a vote. The amendments received overwhelming support, with 140 MPs voting in favor, one voting against, and four abstaining. This ratification marks a significant step in professionalizing Somalia’s financial sector and enhancing regulatory frameworks for accountancy.
Introduction of Cybercrimes Legislation
In a move to modernize the country’s legal infrastructure, the House also conducted the first reading of the National Cybercrimes Bill. Drafted by the Ministry of Communications and Technology, this legislation aims to establish a legal framework to combat digital offenses and protect the nation’s information systems.
While the session was restricted to the first reading and did not open for general debate, legislators engaged Ministry officials with targeted questions regarding the bill’s general principles and its potential budgetary implications.
Call for Peace in Awdal
Opening the session, Second Deputy Speaker Abdullahi Omar Abshirow delivered an official statement on behalf of the House leadership, addressing the recent events in Borama, Awdal region. The Speaker issued a strong appeal for peace and stability, urging the local population to maintain social cohesion.
Concluding the meeting, the Deputy Speaker directed the Parliamentary Committee on Information, Public Awareness, Culture, and Post to prepare the Cybercrimes Bill for its second reading, paving the way for detailed debate and eventual ratification.
