By M.A. Egge
Justice is the most essential pillar upon which a stable and resilient nation can be built upon.
The sentiments were unequivocally expressed by the President of the Republic of Somaliland H.E. Abdirahman Mohamed Abdillahi Irro as he opened the National Conference on Justice Sector Reform on Tuesday, whereupon he delivered a highly significant keynote speech.
The conference is a major two-day convention that brings together all the justice line stakeholders to chart the way forward in bolstering the sector and enhance the trust of the populaces to the judiciary.
The President likewise pledged that resolutions from the summit would be adopted to make the goals of the sector most feasible.
A similar conference was last held a decade and a half ago hence has this time been convened by the justice ministry under the leadership of Minister Hon. Yonis Ahmed Yonis, in collaboration with international development partners including the United Nations (UNDP) and the European Union.
Scheduled to run for two days, the conference is focused on establishing a justice system that is modern, independent, transparent, and fully responsive to the fundamental rights of Somaliland citizens.
Justice Is the Foundation of a Strong State
In his address, the Head of State emphasized that justice is the most essential pillar upon which a stable and resilient nation can be built. He noted that justice underpins the protection of citizens’ rights, the fulfilment of national duties, and the smooth functioning of state institutions.
The President underscored that justice plays a decisive role in every aspect of society—from peace and stability to economic development and national unity.
He stated the fact that no nation can progress without a justice system that serves and reaches all citizens equally, without discrimination based on social status, clan identity, or economic background.
A Call for Independent, Expert-Led Reform
Highlighting the significance of the gathering, the President pointed out that, “This important conference brings together all stakeholders in the justice sector, as well as legal and judicial experts”.
He continued, “Working independently, and guided by your knowledge and experience, you have the responsibility to thoroughly analyze the system, strengthen what works, correct what has gone off-track, and introduce modalities of what is missing.”
The President reaffirmed his constitutional responsibility to uphold the laws of the Republic of Somaliland, pledging that his administration will implement the recommendations and reforms emerging from the National Conference on Justice Sector Reform.
Restoring Trust in Justice
To address grievances within the justice sector and restore public confidence in the courts, the President reiterated his administration’s commitment to advancing justice and the rule of law across the country as per the national ‘Government of Unity and Delivery’ agenda.