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Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud officially opened the 7th session of the 11th Parliament on Monday, just a day after returning from the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York. In his address, he reflected on the country’s recent progress and outlined key priorities for the government moving forward.
The President began by praising lawmakers for their work in passing important legislation over the past months. These laws, he noted, focused on strengthening politics, improving security, preparing for future elections, pushing through economic reforms, and restructuring the army to make it stronger and more effective. He reminded Parliament that these steps were vital for Somalia’s long-term stability and growth.
He also commended the Somali National Army for its continued efforts against al-Shabaab, acknowledging the sacrifices made by soldiers on multiple frontlines. He emphasized that military pressure on the group would continue until remaining territories under their control are liberated. Highlighting a recent achievement, he proudly pointed out that Somali pilots are now flying the country’s own planes during operations, a development he described as an important milestone in the growth of the national army.
President Mohamud further addressed the establishment of a new Northeastern regional administration in Las Anod. He described it as a positive step that reflected the will of the people. At the same time, he clarified that this does not mean neighboring regions lose their identity or independence. Instead, he called for reconciliation, strengthened security, and investment in essential services to ensure peaceful coexistence and cooperation between regions.
On the sensitive issue of prisoners captured in conflict, the President referenced Somali traditions, noting that it was not customary to keep prisoners locked away. Instead, he emphasized the cultural value of respecting those captured in war and returning them to their communities with dignity.
Turning to economic opportunities, President Mohamud announced that Somalia is preparing to drill its first oil well in the coming months. While he did not reveal an exact timeline or location, the announcement signals a major step in the country’s efforts to harness natural resources for national development.
The President also addressed ongoing political challenges, particularly the tensions with federal member states Puntland and Jubbaland, which boycotted recent National Consultative Council meetings. He stressed that his administration remains committed to dialogue and consensus, underlining that Somalia’s progress requires unity. “We are working hard to talk to the brothers who rejected the Council. Responsibility requires us to reach out to those with concerns, and we will continue to do so,” he said. His words reinforced the government’s position that reconciliation must be pursued through peaceful means rather than confrontation.
President Mohamud’s speech reflected the constitutional duty outlined in Article 90, which requires the Head of State to open parliamentary sessions with a report on government performance during the recess. By touching on security, governance, reconciliation, and economic growth, his remarks gave a broad overview of both achievements and ongoing challenges.
The session opened against the backdrop of Somalia’s growing international recognition. Just days earlier, at the United Nations General Assembly, the President had shared updates on Somalia’s progress in security, governance, and constitutional reforms, presenting a vision of a country moving forward despite its many hurdles. His address to Parliament built on that same vision, calling for continued cooperation between leaders, institutions, and the Somali people.
Through his words, President Mohamud aimed to reassure lawmakers and citizens alike that the government is pressing ahead with reforms, fighting terrorism, seeking unity, and exploring new opportunities to strengthen Somalia’s future.