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The SSC-Khaatumo Parliament has taken a significant step toward formalizing its governance by approving the creation of a constitutional drafting committee. This development is seen as a crucial move in shaping the future of the region’s administration and establishing a legal framework to guide its governance.
During an extraordinary session earlier this week, lawmakers ratified the decision after Speaker Jama Yasin Warsame informed Parliament that a previous attempt to delegate the constitutional process to judicial institutions had stalled. The absence of a Supreme Court had created a legal vacuum, leaving the responsibility of drafting a governance framework entirely in the hands of Parliament. With this approval, the House has taken a leadership role in ensuring that SSC-Khaatumo moves toward structured governance.
Speaker Warsame emphasized the importance of this step, stating that the legislative bill to form the Constitutional Drafting Committee had been introduced and would serve as the foundation for SSC-Khaatumo’s governance structure. The drafted constitution will ultimately be ratified by the General Assembly, a political summit outlined in Article 6, Clause 2 of the SSC-Khaatumo Charter. This assembly will include key political figures, traditional elders, and representatives from civil society, all of whom will contribute to shaping the region’s political future.
SSC-Khaatumo leader Abdiqadir Aw Ali Firdhiye underscored the necessity of the constitutional process, stating that it is essential for solidifying the administration’s authority and ensuring long-term stability. According to Firdhiye, preparing a constitution in advance is vital to maintaining political coherence and reinforcing the principles outlined in the region’s charter. He asserted that these principles serve as the guiding framework for governance and that no deviations from them would be tolerated.
Despite the progress, internal divisions have emerged within SSC-Khaatumo’s political leadership. Some lawmakers argue that securing territorial and political stability should take precedence over drafting a constitution. They believe that formalizing governance before solidifying control over the region could create additional challenges. However, others insist that establishing a codified constitution is critical for gaining legitimacy in negotiations with Somalia’s federal government. It is also viewed as a strategic move to counter Somaliland’s territorial claims over SSC-Khaatumo, as having a clear legal framework could strengthen the region’s position in diplomatic engagements.
One of the key concerns raised in parliamentary discussions was whether the constitutional drafting process would impact SSC-Khaatumo’s electoral roadmap. In response, Parliament clarified that the ongoing constitutional process would not interfere with elections, assuring that electoral matters would be governed by separate legal instruments and existing electoral guidelines. This reassurance was aimed at addressing concerns among lawmakers and the public about potential delays or conflicts between the two processes.
The move to draft a constitution represents a critical turning point for SSC-Khaatumo. It reflects the region’s growing determination to establish a structured administration and assert its political identity. The constitutional drafting committee is expected to outline the legal and institutional foundations necessary for governance, addressing key issues such as political representation, administrative structure, and legal authority. As SSC-Khaatumo continues to navigate its political future, the drafting of a constitution could serve as a milestone in its quest for regional stability and autonomy.
With the approval of the constitutional drafting committee, SSC-Khaatumo’s leadership is set to engage in an intensive legislative process that will shape the region’s future governance. While challenges remain, including political divisions and external territorial disputes, the establishment of a legal framework could provide the necessary foundation for long-term stability. The success of this initiative will depend on the ability of SSC-Khaatumo’s leaders to balance immediate political concerns with the long-term vision of governance and self-determination.