Somalia Parliament to consider extending presidential term limits from 4 to 5 years

The Federal Parliament of Somalia, has appointed a ten-member committee to prepare a report on a motion signed by 100 lawmakers advocating for amendments and supplements to the constitution.

According to reports, the motion seeks to amend articles 60 and 91, which currently state that the President of the Federal Government of Somalia shall hold office for a term of four years, beginning on the day they take the oath of office.

The Chairman of Somalia’s Senate said that his chamber would follow suit after accepting a proposal that 15 senators put forth.

Meanwhile, some of the lawmakers added that this is not the time for parliament to consider an extension period and that they are aware of the problems and difficulties experienced for a long time.

Former Somalia Presidents including Sheikh Sharif have opposed the proposed extension of government agencies, including the Presidency and Parliament.

In 2021, the Lower House of Parliament voted to extend the mandate of former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo and the federal government by two years to end a political stalemate over national elections.

However, opposition candidates, led by current President Mohamud and former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, successfully pushed the parliament to abandon the mandate term extensions.