Somaliland’s parliament broke new ground yesterday as they welcomed Amina Elmi Farid, their first female lawmaker, with a standing ovation. This momentous event comes on the heels of pointed criticism from women’s rights groups two years ago when the assembly was exclusively male.
Farid, who previously served as the Minister of Investment, didn’t win in the May 31, 2021, election. However, fate took a turn when she was chosen to fill the seat left vacant by the late Nor Osman Guled, a fellow UCID party member who had represented the Awdal region. Farid, who had the second-highest vote tally in the region, opted to leave her ministerial post to take on this new role.
“While the ministerial role carries political weight, it’s here in the parliament that laws take shape. I’m determined to challenge the obstacles that once barred my path to this council, with the aim of paving the way for those who follow—particularly young people and women—so they don’t grapple with the same hurdles,” Farid told BBC Somali.
While Farid’s inclusion in the House of Representatives is hailed as a step forward, it doesn’t automatically guarantee gender balance. However, her unique perspective and voice are expected to invigorate the assembly.
Farid has underlined her commitment to being a strong voice for the women of Somaliland in the parliament. Having worked globally in locations like New Zealand, England, and the UAE, she recently returned to her homeland to make a difference.
