MOGADISHU, Nov 22, 2025 – Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Saturday opened the country’s first National Justice Forum, a gathering aimed at advancing legal reforms, strengthening accountability and restoring public confidence in judicial institutions.
Speaking at the launch of the conference in Mogadishu, Barre said Somalia remained in a critical state-building phase and emphasized the need for an independent and transparent judiciary capable of addressing the needs of citizens. He underscored that upholding the rule of law and improving justice institutions were essential to securing lasting peace and a stable state.
“Without a reliable justice system, there can be no sustainable security, public trust, investment or the modern statehood Somalia deserves. Judicial reform is a national priority and the only path toward a peaceful and stable Somalia,” the premier said.
Barre stressed that a credible justice system is also central to holding free and fair elections and strengthening democratic governance. He noted that his administration, DanQaran, is prioritizing the establishment of the Judicial Service Commission and the Constitutional Court — two key bodies envisioned in the country’s governance framework.
The prime minister also highlighted the importance of completing the review and finalization of the provisional constitution, calling it the foundation for a functioning legal and federal system. A finalized constitution, he said, would bring political stability, unified governance structures, protection of citizens’ rights and a fair judiciary.
Barre thanked Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Hassan Macallin Mohamud and members of the justice sector for organizing the forum, urging participants to engage in frank discussions and propose practical recommendations to advance the country’s justice reforms.
