MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somalia scored a major diplomatic win on Monday when the East African Court of Appeal overturned earlier rulings that had blocked its representatives from joining the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), Arlaadi Media Network reports.
The decision came after weeks of uncertainty and legal challenges that left Somalia’s elected lawmakers waiting on the sidelines — and it now clears the way for them to finally take their seats in the regional parliament.
The ruling is not just a procedural victory. For Somalia, it represents a step toward rebuilding trust and strengthening its role in East Africa after years of instability.
Somalia’s ambassador to Tanzania and the East African Community, Ilyaas Ali Hassan, described the move as a “historic victory,” saying it strengthens the rule of law and deepens Somalia’s integration into the EAC.
The issue has been closely watched across the region, with officials in Nairobi and Dodoma observing how Somalia’s membership and participation will shape future EAC decisions on trade, security, and political cooperation.
With Somalia officially joining the EAC in 2024, this ruling could mark a turning point in the country’s push to become a full, active member of the bloc — and it comes at a time when the region is increasingly focused on unity amid shared security and economic challenges.
