Somali Parliamentarians Secure Seats in East African Legislature: Legal Block Removed

DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — The East African Court of Appeal has overturned previous rulings that had barred nine Somali parliamentarians from taking their seats in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA). Somalia’s Ambassador to Tanzania and the East African Community (EAC), Ilyaas Cali Xasan, confirmed the development, stating that the decision was made after weeks of legal deliberations. “This ruling strengthens Somalia’s influence within the East African Community and supports our ongoing efforts to enhance regional integration,” the ambassador said. In November, the East African Court of Justice (EACJ) had suspended the swearing-in of Somalia’s nine representatives to EALA. The suspension followed complaints from Somali scholars and politicians, who questioned the legality of the election held in Mogadishu, citing political interference, the exclusion of qualified candidates, and violations of EAC procedures. Critics also argued that the Federal Parliament bypassed nomination rules, favoring government-affiliated individuals while blocking other candidates. The controversy prompted the court to halt the swearing-in until a full review could be conducted. With the appeal court’s decision, Somalia’s EALA representatives are now cleared to assume their seats, marking a significant step in the country’s regional engagement.