Somali judiciary should work independently, former Chief Justice says

Somalia’s former chief justice, Eydid Abdullahi Ilka-Hanaf has said judicial independence should be respected by other branches of government and should execute its duties independently.

Speaking during a handover ceremony held in Mogadishu, Ilka Hanaf said the Working conditions for judges and other judicial officers must be improved, including improvement in pay and security.

“The working condition of judges has been improved but the judiciary system is still facing challenges” he said.

Ilkahanaf pointed out that he did a lot of achievements during his five-year term in office and he wishes success to his successor.

“There have been significant challenges to improve the country’s judiciary system,” said Ilka-Hanaf.

He handed over the office to the newly appointed successor Ibrahim Idle Suleiman on Tuesday.

Ilka Hanaf   wisheed success to his successor and pledged to closely work with him.

former chief justice was dismissed on last Wednesday after holding the position since 2011.

The Presidential decree said that High Court Chief Judge was sacked for age-related reasons and health complications.

According to sources, since last year there has been an ongoing rift between the President and the chief justice.