Somali Parliament Approves Anti-Piracy Law Revision and National Day of Remembrance for October 14 Attacks

Mogadishu, Somalia (Sahan Post):– The Members of the Lower House of Somalia’s Federal Parliament have approved a crucial piece of legislation aimed at updating the country’s anti-piracy and anti-abduction laws. The revision of the Anti-Piracy and Anti-Abduction Law (Law No. 36), originally enacted on April 30, 1975, was passed with overwhelming support. A total of 140 Members of Parliament (MPs) voted in favor of the bill, with no MPs voting against it and none abstaining from the vote.

The updated law is part of Somalia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its legal framework in combating piracy and the abduction of civilians, which have been persistent challenges off the coast of Somalia. The revised legislation is expected to enhance the country’s ability to deal with maritime threats and provide stronger punitive measures for those involved in piracy and related criminal activities.

October 14 Declared National Day of Remembrance

In another significant move, Somali lawmakers also approved a resolution designating October 14 as a national day of remembrance. This decision marks a solemn occasion to honor the victims of the 2017 bombings and attacks carried out by the militant group Al-Shabaab, which resulted in hundreds of lives lost in Mogadishu. The resolution received broad support, with 137 MPs voting in favor, two MPs voting against, and one abstention.

The October 14 attacks, one of the deadliest in Somalia’s recent history, saw a truck bomb explode at a busy intersection in the heart of the capital, leaving a devastating toll on the civilian population. The new national day aims to ensure that the victims of these attacks are never forgotten, and to recognize the ongoing struggles against terrorism and extremism in the country.

The decision to commemorate the day annually highlights the Somali government’s commitment to remembering those affected by violence and reaffirms the country’s resolve to combat extremism.

The passing of these two measures reflects the Somali government’s commitment to improving its legal system and fostering national unity in the face of ongoing security challenges.

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