Mogadishu -Somalia has welcomed a ruling by the East African Court of Appeal that clears the way for its elected lawmakers to take their seats in the East African Legislative Assembly (EALA), ending months of legal uncertainty over the country’s participation in the regional body.

The decision overturns an earlier judgment by the East African Court of Justice, which had suspended the swearing-in of Somalia’s representatives following a petition that challenged the nomination process in Mogadishu.

The petition, filed by Somali academics and political figures, alleged that the selection of the nine lawmakers elected by Somalia’s Federal Parliament was influenced by political considerations, excluded qualified candidates, and violated East African Community procedures.

The appellate court’s ruling removes these legal obstacles, allowing Somalia to fully participate in the assembly’s legislative work on regional trade, policy, and cooperation.

In a statement, Somalia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation congratulated the lawmakers and emphasized the importance of Somalia’s engagement within the East African Community, noting that the elected members will play a key role in advancing regional integration and collaboration.

Somalia joined the East African Community in 2023, seeking to strengthen its ties with regional partners after decades of conflict and isolation.

Full participation in the legislative assembly is seen as a cornerstone of the country’s membership, giving Mogadishu a direct voice in shaping laws and policies across the bloc.

The ministry reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to working closely with EAC partner states on shared priorities, including economic development, regional stability, and enhanced cooperation, signaling a new chapter in Somalia’s regional engagement.