Mogadishu(Mogadihsu24)-In an extraordinary meeting held on Friday evening, the Cabinet of the Federal Government of Somalia, chaired by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, made significant decisions of special importance to the country and its people.

The Cabinet unanimously approved the Draft Bill on the establishment of the Independent National Electoral and Boundaries Commission. This pivotal move is expected to enhance the democratic process in Somalia by ensuring fair and transparent elections.

Additionally, the Cabinet issued a robust resolution aimed at strengthening the management of weapons and ammunition in the country. This resolution aligns with the National Security Plan and international standards, addressing key concerns around the illegal arms trade and enhancing national security measures.

Key points of the resolution include:

• Prohibition of Arms Trade: The sale and trade of all types of arms and military supplies entering or leaving the Federal Republic of Somalia are strictly prohibited.
• Ban on Illegal Activities: Activities such as importing, exporting, manufacturing, trading, transferring, or distributing arms and military supplies, as well as brokering related activities within Somalia, are banned.
• Regulation of Light Arms: Only the possession of light arms such as AK47s and pistols, registered with the respective Ministries of Internal Security at both federal and state levels, is permitted.

To enforce these measures, the Cabinet has outlined stringent legal actions against violators, including the confiscation of illegal arms and military supplies, and the imposition of surveillance and restrictions. The Ministry of Internal Security, along with the security ministries of the federal member states, is instructed to implement this resolution in close collaboration with the Central Monitoring Department (CMD) of the National Security Office. Regular reports are to be provided to the National Security Council of the Federal Government of Somalia.

This resolution is effective immediately, having been approved by the Cabinet and signed by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre. It will be published in the Official Gazette of the Government. In addition to these measures, the Cabinet also approved the Policy on the Procurement of Arms, Ammunition, and Military Equipment, further bolstering the country’s defense and security framework.

These landmark decisions mark a significant step forward in Somalia’s efforts to enhance governance, ensure electoral integrity, and strengthen national security.