Opposition Criticizes Federal Government’s Approach to Human Rights Commission Selection Process

By A Yusuf

Mogadishu, Somalia — June 7, 2025 —The Somali Rescue Forum, a coalition that includes several former national leaders, has strongly condemned the Federal Government’s handling of the selection process for members of the Independent Human Rights Commission. 

In a statement issued today, the Forum accused the government of violating both constitutional procedures and national laws.

According to the statement, the government has disregarded key legal provisions, particularly Articles 41 and 111B of the Provisional Constitution, as well as Law No. 16 of 2016, which governs the establishment of the Commission. 

The Forum emphasized that the selection process should have followed a transparent, accountable, and politically impartial approach—principles they claim have been ignored.

The statement specifically pointed to Villa Somalia, alleging direct interference in the selection process, which they say raises serious concerns about the independence of the future Commission.

The Somali Rescue Forum warned that failure to correct the process could severely undermine public trust and the credibility of the judiciary, while also threatening the autonomy of the Human Rights Commission.

The Forum issued the following demands:
1. Immediate suspension of the nomination process until a lawful, constitutionally compliant method is assured.
2. Non-interference by the Presidency and the Executive in the selection of commission members.
3. Equal opportunity for qualified, reputable, and capable Somali citizens to compete for the commission roles through an open and transparent process covered by the media.
4. Vigilance by international partners, civil society, and human rights organizations to prevent the Commission from being politicized or hijacked for narrow interests.

In conclusion, the Forum called on the Federal Government, regional administrations, civil society, journalists, and the international community to closely monitor the selection process to ensure it aligns with both the Provisional Constitution and Law No. 16.

In a press statement issued by the Somali Rescue Forum, the group emphasized that the selection of members for the Human Rights Commission should have been based on a transparent, merit-based, and politically impartial process. However, the Forum expressed deep concern that the current approach appears to be driven by personal and political interests. 

The statement further pointed out that Villa Somalia has been visibly and directly involved in manipulating the selection process, raising serious questions about the Commission’s independence.

Source: Radio Risaala Somali Version