Saturday June 10, 2023
Hargeisa (HOL) – The Attorney General of Somaliland, Abdirahman Jamac Hayan, prosecuted the case against the Speaker of Somaliland's House of Representatives, Abdirisaq Khalif Ahmed, who has been accused of undermining the existence of the self-proclaimed republic of Somaliland.
Highlighting the constitutional nature of the case, Hayan emphasized that constitutional matters hold the highest significance in the court of law, with potential repercussions in the form of penalties. However, he clarified that the current proceedings are not punitive but are based on Article 79 of the Somaliland Constitution.
The Attorney General elaborated on the case, which has sparked controversy among various lawyers and politicians from different parties, by citing seven constitutional provisions that he claims Khalif violated.
"Among the constitutional articles violated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives are Articles 129 and 123, as well as Articles 1 and 2, which pertain to the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and separate borders of Somaliland," stated Hayan.
Furthermore, he accused Governor Khalif of breaching his oath to serve all citizens of Somaliland equally, as well as making claims about a distinct region and displaying the flag of Somalia.
The Attorney General also highlighted the violation of Article 50, which outlines the conditions under which a member can lose his seat in the House of Representatives, including absenteeism from council sessions for a period of 20 sessions. He further noted that according to Article 49, Clause 7, no council permission is required when members of parliament face non-punitive charges.
Hayan’s remarks have further fueled the ongoing debate surrounding the case, drawing attention to the constitutional implications and potential consequences for the accused Speaker. As the proceedings continue, the matter remains a topic of significant interest for legal experts, politicians, and citizens.
Several weeks ago, the Somaliland President dispatched Khalif to the disputed town of Las Anod to contribute to finding a solution to the prolonged conflict there. However, Khalif openly aligned himself with the traditional elders representing the people of the Sool, Sanaag, and Ayn regions, collectively known as SCC-Khatumo.
Furthermore, Speaker Abdirisaaq Khalif Ahmed accused the Somaliland army of bombing and destroying the town, alleging that President Bihi ignored his recommendations for resolving the conflict.
Despite these developments, Khalif has remained in his positions as a parliamentarian and as Speaker of the House of Representatives in Somaliland.