Somalia’s Marwa Hagi to battle four other Africa Women MPs for Inter-parliamentary Union President
Mogadishu – Ms. Marwa Abdibashir Hagi, a member of the House of People of Somalia has set eyes on the office of President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, which is to be filled at the 147th IPU Assembly meeting in Luanda, Angola.
The governing council of the union will hold elections during a summit of members between 23rd – 27th October 2023.
She is vying alongside three other candidates who have come forward for the position, all women MPs from Africa – a historic first, legislators; Ms. Adji Diarra Mergane Kanouté, Senegal, Ms. Catherine Gotani Hara, Malawi and Ms. Tulia Ackson, United Republic of Tanzania.
If elected, she will replace the outgoing President Mr. Duarte Pacheco from Portugal who was elected in 2020 in the first IPU online election during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The IPU is the global organization of national parliaments. It began in 1889 as a small group of parliamentarians, dedicated to promoting peace through parliamentary diplomacy and dialogue, has since grown into a truly global organization with 179 Members and 14 Associate Members.
The IPU facilitates parliamentary diplomacy and empowers parliaments and parliamentarians to promote peace, democracy and sustainable development around the world.
Ms. Hagi has been a member of the House of the People since 2022 where she is also Deputy Chairperson of the Resources Committee.
She has over 15 years of professional experience working with the Somali Government including preparing reports on projects for the World Bank.
Ms. Hagi studied Business Administration at Algonquin College/University in Ottawa, Canada where she obtained a bachelor’s degree.
Her experience includes supporting consultants, monitoring project activities, conducting value chain assessments and delivering training and technical assistance.
Ms. Hagi said Climate change presents one of the most pressing challenges of our time and has committed to addressing the global issue with urgency and determination.
“I will wholeheartedly support initiatives aimed at alleviating the refugee crisis, and I will tirelessly work to counteract profiteering that undermines the well-being of communities,” she said.
She has promised to prioritize and foster an environment of inclusivity, “where every voice is heard, and every nation plays an active role in shaping our global future.”
Bidding for the seat on behalf of Somalia, Hagi bid pledged to advocate for the rights and safety of all individuals across the union’s member states.
“As you are well aware, Somalia has faced challenges in terms of human rights, and it is a key motivation for my candidacy. I strongly believe that violence against any gender should be universally condemned”, said the legislator.
She added “I believe that our shared vision for a better world, coupled with your leadership and the collaborative spirit of IPU Members, can truly make a difference.”
Four Candidates have been approved for the top position which Angola will host, for the first time, from the 23rd to the 27th of October. Photo/ GT
She has called on members to support her quest to head the organization.
Over the past 25 years, the IPU Presidency has been held by prominent parliamentarians from Egypt, Spain, India, Chile, Italy, Namibia, Morocco, Bangladesh, Mexico and Portugal.
She will become the first Somali women elected for such a position since the country gained independence in 1960 and will serve as President for a term of three years.
Ms. Marwa will chair all statutory meetings and represents the organization at major global events.