For Immediate Release
MOGADISHU – Transparency Somalia expresses grave concern over the Federal Government of Somalia’s July 16, 2026, decision to unilaterally appoint interim leadership for the Somali Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). This direct executive interference in an independent private-sector institution severely undermines basic principles of corporate governance, public accountability, and the rule of law.
The SCCI is legally established to operate autonomously, guided by its own internal bylaws, democratic processes, and leadership frameworks. By circumventing these established legal structures, the Federal Government’s actions set a dangerous precedent of state overreach that threatens the integrity of independent institutions across the country.
“A thriving, transparent economy requires a strict separation between state regulation and private-sector governance. Unilateral political appointments inside independent chambers undermine market confidence, invite corruption, and destroy the civic trust necessary for economic stability.”
We note with concern that this is not an isolated incident of administrative overreach. While the government previously requested a postponement of the Chamber’s elections in 2023 under the guise of “monitoring the electoral process,” this latest move to forcibly install an interim management directly contradicts prior agreements. It bypasses transparent, consultative processes entirely.
Transparency Somalia calls on the Federal Government to:
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Immediately rescind the unlawful appointment of the interim leadership panel.
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Respect the legal and administrative autonomy of the Somali Chamber of Commerce and Industry as protected by law.
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Cease any further actions that risk fragmenting the Somali business community or creating artificial divisions among local entrepreneurs.
Moving forward, Transparency Somalia initiative urges all parties—the Federal Government, legitimate SCCI leadership, and private sector stakeholders—to engage in an open, lawful, and consultative dialogue to reach a unity-based resolution.
The integrity of Somalia’s economic institutions cannot be sacrificed for short-term political control. We demand a swift return to a rules-based, transparent electoral process for the Chamber’s leadership, free from state interference.
Download the Press Release link: Transparency Somalia Condemns Federal Government Overreach; Demands Respect for Institutional Autonomy at the Somali Chamber of Commerce
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