MOGADISHU, Somalia – The Federal Parliament of Somalia held its 14th session of the 6th legislative term today, during which the House of the People held the first reading of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, presented by The Minister of Family & Human Rights Development.

Minister Khadija Mohamed Al-Makhzoumi explained the purpose of the charter, emphasizing its relevance to protecting children’s rights across the continent. The charter, which came into force in 1999 and has been ratified by 51 African Union member states, has not yet been signed by Somalia.

The reading sparked a heated debate in the chamber, with several MPs opposing specific provisions they deemed to be in conflict with Islamic principles. Chief among them was Article 9, Paragraph 1, which guarantees every child “the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.”

MP Abdirashid Jiley argued that such provisions contradict Islamic teachings and called for the document to be returned to the ministry for revision.

“This law goes against our religion, Mr. Chairman. It is a law that does not align with our noble Islamic teachings. Since this law violates that principle, I propose that it be revoked,” said Member of Parliament Abdirashid Jiley.

Another point of contention was Article 2, which defines a child as anyone under the age of 18. Some lawmakers raised concerns about how that definition aligns with Islamic jurisprudence regarding age-related responsibilities.

However, other lawmakers spoke in defense of the charter. MP Sareedo stressed the urgent need for legal protection for vulnerable children, pointing to widespread violations such as abuse and neglect.

“Let the matter not be distorted. When a child is killed, does it align with our religion? Kidneys are being removed, let the children’s bodies be left alone, and let them be treated properly. The rights of the child should be discussed. Let the matter not be misrepresented,” said MP Sareedo.

Minister Al-Makhzoumi acknowledged the concerns and stated that the contentious clauses could be reviewed or adapted in line with Somalia’s unique context.

Somalia remains one of only four AU member states that have yet to ratify the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.