By Asha Elmi - Reporter
SOMALIA, Aug. 14, 2026 – Somalia’s newly elected parliament speaker, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur (Jaamac), said the country faces a range of security, economic and political challenges, calling for greater unity and cooperation to overcome them.
Nur made the remarks on Thursday at a dinner reception held to welcome him as the new Speaker of Somalia’s House of the People.
He said Somalia’s challenges include dependence on foreign assistance, economic hardship, the threat posed by militants, political divisions and the consequences of past political approaches.
Nur warned that these conditions could pose serious risks to the country, including what he described as significant foreign interference aimed at prolonging Somalia’s difficulties.
He also acknowledged that the government’s efforts to pursue political change and reform could face disagreements among political actors, but said the country should continue working towards change despite the challenges.
“The only thing required of us is to try to bring about change, whatever God may put before us,” Nur said.
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He called for unity, mutual trust, compromise and cooperation, describing them as essential to overcoming the challenges facing the country.
Nur also pledged to lead a united parliament that fully represents the Somali people while cooperating closely with the other branches of government.
He said parliament carries a distinct responsibility because it represents both the Somali people and the interests of the country’s federal member states.
The new speaker said lawmakers have a limited but important period ahead and pledged to address issues affecting the lives and dignity of Somali citizens wherever possible.
He also promised to listen to lawmakers’ concerns and accommodate their political interests where possible, while seeking to prevent technical or political disagreements from obstructing parliament’s work.
Nur thanked lawmakers for electing him and called on them to support him as he assumes responsibility for leading the House of the People.