By HAN News Desk
ARUSHA – The East African Court of Justice (EACJ) in Arusha has reinstated the nine parliamentary seats allocated to Somalia in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), reversing an earlier decision that had blocked the country from filling its positions. The ruling marks a significant development for Somalia’s participation in regional affairs, just months after officially joining the East African Community (EAC).
The case stemmed from a challenge that temporarily prevented Somalia from appointing its representatives to the regional parliament. However, the court ruled that the decision to deny the seats lacked sufficient grounds, clearing the path for Somalia to move forward with its nominations.
Abdisataar Hassan Cali, who attended the court session in Arusha, described the atmosphere as tense but hopeful. Speaking shortly after the ruling, he told HAN News that the judges were unanimous in their decision to restore Somalia’s right to representation.
According to Abdisataar, the court emphasized that Somalia, as a full member of the EAC, is entitled to equal participation in all decision-making bodies. He added that the ruling reaffirmed the principle that new member states must be given a fair and timely opportunity to integrate into the community’s political and legislative structures.
The reinstatement of the nine seats now clears the way for the Somali Federal Parliament to resume its internal selection process. Lawmakers in Mogadishu are expected to move quickly to nominate individuals who will represent the country at EALA, where they will participate in debates, oversight, and regional policy development.
Somalia’s entry into the EAC in 2023 was seen as a major step toward strengthening regional economic, political, and security cooperation. Analysts say that full representation in EALA is essential for ensuring that Somalia’s interests are reflected in the community’s decisions, particularly in areas such as trade integration, infrastructure, and regional security coordination.
The decision by the Arusha-based court has been widely welcomed by Somali officials and observers, many of whom view it as an important affirmation of the country’s status and rights within the bloc. The ruling also sends a broader signal that new member states must be supported, not excluded, during their integration process.
We will bring more details as reactions emerge from Mogadishu and EAC member states.
