Somalia: Somaliland Elders Extend Parliament Terms, Draw Criticism

On April 29, 2026, Somaliland's House of Elders approved a 27-month extension of the mandates for the House of Representatives and local councils, opting for a longer timeline than government proposals. The decision, made with 71 votes from 72 members present, will take effect on July 7, 2026. This measure has drawn criticism, particularly from Guleid Ahmed Jama, who warned that it risks undermining democratic principles and public trust.