Uganda Law Society Urges Somalia to Respect Court Rulings and Term Limits

The Uganda Law Society has called on Somalia's government to obey constitutional limits and court rulings. The group issued its statement on Tuesday, November 10, 2026. It warned that Somalia's political crisis could undo the sacrifices Ugandan soldiers made to restore peace.

The dispute centres on a standoff between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's government and the judiciary. On November 5, 2026, Somalia's Supreme Court ruled that Mohamud's four-year term expired on May 15, 2026. It also found that Parliament's mandate ended on April 14. 

The court said constitutional changes adopted in March 2026, which extended terms to five years, did not apply automatically to officials already in office.

The court told political leaders to agree on an electoral framework within 30 days. It also ordered elections within 90 days.

The row deepened after Mohamud dismissed Chief Justice Baashe Yusuf Ahmed on November 4. He appointed former Chief Justice Ibrahim Idle Suleiman in his place. 

The Supreme Court declared that dismissal unconstitutional and void. Mohamud nonetheless swore in Suleiman on November 7.

The Uganda Law Society, led by its president, Isaac K. Ssemakadde, said Uganda paid heavily for Somalia's peace. Uganda was the first country to send troops under the African Union Mission in Somalia, arriving on March 5, 2007. 

The society said the mission's sacrifices must not be wasted through actions that weaken constitutional institutions.

The group also reminded Somalia of its duties under the East African Community Treaty. Articles 6(d) and 7(2) require member states to uphold democracy, the rule of law, accountability, and human rights.

The society urged Somalia to comply with the Supreme Court's decisions, respect term limits, and protect judicial independence. 

It also called on the East African Community, the African Union, and international partners to press Mogadishu to follow the law. Its statement ended with a blunt demand: "RESIST LAWLESSNESS."