Hargeisa – Exclusive: In a significant engagement strengthening people-to-people and institutional connections, Abdul Rafay Afzal, Editor-in-Chief of The Advocate Post, President Youth (Civil Society Network Pakistan) met with Yasin Haji Mohamoud “Faratoon”, the Speaker of the House of Representatives of Somaliland (Guddoomiyaha Golaha Wakiillada). The meeting was also joined by MP Suleman, a sitting member of Parliament.

During the discussion, Mr. Afzal and Speaker Faratoon exchanged views on Somaliland’s evolving democratic landscape, regional stability, and the role of parliamentary leadership in shaping governance. The Speaker highlighted Somaliland’s commitment to democratic self-rule and inclusive political processes.

Speaker Faratoon also appreciated Pakistan’s contributions at the international stage and its leadership within the Muslim world, acknowledging the historical goodwill between the peoples of Pakistan and Somaliland.

Visit to Somaliland Parliament

Following the meeting, Abdul Rafay Afzal was given an official tour of the Parliament of Somaliland, including the main Assembly hall, parliamentary chambers, committee rooms, and heritage corridors that represent Somaliland’s political evolution.

Officials briefed him on the bicameral structure of the Parliament, comprising:

• Golaha Wakiillada (House of Representatives): the elected lower house

• Golaha Guurtida (House of Elders): the upper house rooted in traditional authority and consensus-based decision-making

This dual-house system, unique in the Horn of Africa, plays a crucial role in maintaining stability, conflict-resolution, and legislative continuity.

Afzal described the visit as

“an insightful opportunity to observe firsthand the institutional maturity and democratic commitments that have shaped Somaliland into one of the region’s most stable governance models.”