Hargeisa (Hornpost) In a landmark event for the Somaliland community, President Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi (Cirro) inaugurated the National Conference on Judicial Reform, a pivotal gathering aimed at overhauling the region’s justice institutions. This conference, the first of its kind in 14 years, is hosted by the Ministry of Justice of Somaliland, under the leadership of Minister Younis Ahmed Younis, with support from international stakeholders such as the UN Development Programmed and the European Union.
The conference, which spans two days, is focused on establishing a modern, independent, and transparent judicial system that genuinely protects the fundamental rights of Somaliland citizens. President Cirro emphasized the paramount importance of justice as a cornerstone for building a resilient nation. He noted, “Justice is the foundation upon which a nation can stand firmly. It underpins the protection of human rights, the fulfillment of national duties, and the effective functioning of governance. Justice influences every facet of societal life—from security and stability to economic prosperity and national unity”
The President articulated a clear message that without a fair judicial system accessible to all citizens—regardless of their social standing, ethnicity, or economic status—the nation cannot achieve meaningful progress. He further remarked, “No country can claim to have moved forward without a justice system that equally serves all its citizens. Justice should bridge societal gaps rather than reinforce them.”
During his address, President Cirro urged all stakeholders present, including justice system practitioners and legal experts, to engage deeply in assessing and revising Somaliland’s judicial framework. He stated, “You have gathered here as independent parties with the expertise and experience to thoroughly evaluate our national justice system—to identify strengths that must be reinforced, shortcomings that need rectification, and gaps we must address.”
In his remarks, Minister Younis Ahmed Younis highlighted the prolonged efforts to organize this conference, expressing gratitude to President Cirro for his support. “We have worked tirelessly for many years to bring this conference to fruition. It symbolizes a historical moment for Somaliland as we discuss and seek solutions regarding justice, which has been a critical issue for the last 34 years,” he said. He acknowledged the hard work of those who have contributed to the justice sector amid challenging circumstances.
Minister Younis further emphasized that this conference aligns with the government’s commitments outlined in the Waddani party’s agenda and President Cirro’s pledges. He expressed optimism that meaningful dialogue at this conference will lay the groundwork for a more equitable justice system in Somaliland.
Additionally, Younis commended the role of the Somaliland Police Force and its leadership in supporting judicial reform efforts. “I would like to thank the Police Chief, Abdi Dhere, for his commitment to enhancing the judicial process, transforming police stations into more civilian-friendly environments, akin to hotels in their service to the public,” he said.
The conference has drawn together a diverse array of participants who are all dedicated to improving justice in Somaliland. First Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Said Mire Gire, affirmed the legislative body’s readiness to review laws that do not meet contemporary needs and align with principles of justice.
As the discussions unfold, it is anticipated that key recommendations will emerge from this conference aimed at enhancing judicial accountability and addressing significant public grievances concerning the judicial system. These recommendations are expected to captivate the public’s attention, addressing widespread concerns over the effectiveness of the courts and the overall justice landscape in Somaliland.
In conclusion, with the collective efforts and insights from this event, there is hope that Somaliland can pave the way for a reformed justice system that not only meets the demands of its citizens but also restores faith in the rule of law. The deliberations at this conference could serve as a crucial step toward ensuring that justice in Somaliland is truly a right for all, fostering a society where equality and fairness prevail.
Pictures:
Prepared by
Hornpost staff reporter
