By Abukar Osman - Reporter
MOGADISHU (Dawan) – The Somalia Non-State Actors (SONSA) organization has strongly warned against the Federal Government’s decision on 16 July 2026 to appoint interim leadership for the Somali Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
SONSA emphasized that the Chamber operates independently of government control, with its own rules and procedures governing management and leadership. Direct government interference, the organization said, risks undermining the Chamber’s independence and could trigger conflict and divisions within Somalia’s business community.
The agency recalled that the government had previously requested a postponement of the Chamber’s elections in 2023 to allow more time for monitoring the electoral process.
Related articles
“The appointment of an interim leadership at this time contradicts prior agreements, the autonomy of the Chamber, and the principles of independent institutions,” SONSA’s statement read.
SONSA called on the Federal Government to respect the Chamber’s legal independence and administrative autonomy and to avoid any actions that could harm cohesion within the business community.
“SONSA is ready to facilitate constructive dialogue between the government, Chamber leadership, and other stakeholders to reach a lawful, consultative, and unity-based resolution,” the statement added, noting that similar situations in the past had been resolved politically and legally.
The agency also issued a caution regarding any moves that could create disputes, mistrust, or divisions among Somali entrepreneurs.