The Somali chief justice announced on 8 November that he feels unsafe in the capital and wants all troops withdrawn from the Supreme Court compound. He said the presence of armed forces undermines the independence of the judiciary.
Key takeaways
- Chief Justice Baashe says he is not safe in Mogadishu.
- He demands the removal of troops from the Supreme Court.
- Government officials have not yet responded publicly.
- The move raises concerns about security and judicial autonomy.
Somali chief justice raises safety concerns
In a statement released to local media, Chief Justice Baashe warned that the deployment of soldiers around the Supreme Court creates an atmosphere of intimidation. He added that judges should be able to perform their duties without fear of armed interference.
Background on the troop deployment
Security forces were positioned near the Supreme Court earlier this year following a series of threats against high‑profile judges. The deployment was intended as a temporary protective measure, but it has become a point of contention between the judiciary and the executive.
| Location | Troop Presence |
|---|---|
| Supreme Court grounds | Yes |
| Other government buildings | Variable |
Reaction from the judiciary
Other senior judges have expressed solidarity with the chief justice, saying that a military presence in court corridors erodes public confidence. They have called for a dialogue with the Ministry of Defence to find a civilian security solution.
“Today, as the Chief Justice, I do not feel safe in the capital of my country,” Baashe said.
Government stance
Officials from the president’s office have not issued a formal reply. A spokesperson for the Ministry of Defence indicated that any redeployment would be evaluated in line with national security assessments.
Implications for rule of law
If troops remain, the perception of an independent judiciary could be further damaged. Conversely, a swift withdrawal may restore confidence but could leave judges exposed to other security risks.
What comes next?
The chief justice has set a deadline for the removal of forces, though the exact date was not disclosed. Stakeholders are watching closely for any official decree that could reshape the security framework around Somalia’s highest court.
FAQ
Why does the Somali chief justice feel unsafe?
He says the presence of troops around the Supreme Court creates an atmosphere of intimidation and threatens judicial independence.
Has the government responded to the chief justice’s demand?
No official response has been released as of the latest reports on 8 November 2026.
What could happen if troops are not withdrawn?
Continued military presence may erode public confidence in the judiciary and could be seen as interference in legal proceedings.
Are other judges supporting the chief justice?
Yes, several senior judges have voiced concerns that a military presence undermines the rule of law.
When might the troops be removed?
The chief justice has asked for a prompt withdrawal, but no specific timeline has been announced.
