Somali Observatory for Humanitarian Affairs It is a specialized, independent, non-profit media network that observes and follows up the Somali humanitarian scene
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MOGADISHU – In a historic step towards promoting inclusivity, the Somali government has pledged to grant persons with disabilities a meaningful role in the country’s political process, particularly within the ongoing constitutional review, according to local outlet Radio Dalsan.
The announcement was made by the Acting Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Ambassador Ilyas Sheikh Omar, during the opening of a public consultation forum on the rights of persons with special needs.
Minister Ilyas affirmed that the current national interest government is committed to implementing policies that ensure the full political participation of persons with disabilities. He noted that this forum, unlike previous meetings, places a special emphasis on the voices of people with disabilities in shaping constitutional reforms, as reported by Radio Dalsan.
The consultations, jointly organized by the institutions tasked with overseeing the constitutional review, brought together senior officials, representatives from the three constitutional bodies, the Chairperson of the National Disability Agency, as well as Somali citizens with disabilities.
Participants presented questions and recommendations on how to best ensure their representation in the constitutional review process and how their fundamental rights can be safeguarded. Somalia’s constitutional review has been underway for years, with civil society and marginalized groups advocating for greater recognition of rights and inclusivity.
The government’s commitment to integrating persons with disabilities into the political sphere is a step toward achieving greater equality and justice. Whether these pledges translate into tangible reforms will depend on the willingness of lawmakers and institutions to embed disability rights firmly within Somalia’s new constitutional framework.
