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Saudi Arabia Strongly Condemns Terrorist Attacks in Somalia 

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
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Saudi Arabia Strongly Condemns Terrorist Attacks in Somalia 

A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)
A general view of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (SPA)

The Saudi Foreign Ministry strongly condemned on Friday the terrorist attacks that targeted civilians in Somalia over the past two days, reported the Saudi Press Agency. 

It stressed that the Kingdom stands by Somalia and its people against all forms of violence and terrorism, reiterating its complete rejection of all criminal acts that target innocent civilians and undermine the country’s security and stability. 

It offered the Kingdom’s condolences to the families of the victims and government and people of Somalia. 

Al Shabaab group extremists killed at least six people on Friday while raiding a village in central Somalia that they were pushed out of last week. 

Somalia's government and allied clan militias have forced the militants from large swathes of territory since launching a major offensive last August, but al Shabaab has retaliated with a string of attacks, including bombings in the capital Mogadishu. 

It killed at least 35 people and wounded 40 more on Wednesday, when it detonated two car bombs in the central Somalia town of Mahas. 

Friday's attack targeted the village of Hilowle Gaab in Hirshabelle State, which Somalia's army and allied militiamen captured from al Shabaab last week. 

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Gulf

Qatar Considers Shura Council Appointments Instead of Elections

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. (QNA)
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. (QNA)
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Qatar Considers Shura Council Appointments Instead of Elections

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. (QNA)
Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. (QNA)

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has directed the referral of proposed constitutional amendments, including the return to appointing members of the Shura Council, to the Council for consideration.

Speaking at the opening of the Shura Council's fourth ordinary session on Tuesday, Sheikh Tamim said: “Based on my responsibility and duty towards my country and my people for the good of the present and the future, I considered that these amendments fulfill the supreme interest of the state and promote the values of justice and equality in rights and duties among members of Qatari society.”

“I have directed that the draft constitutional and legislative amendments, including a return to the system for appointing members of the Shura Council, are to be referred to your esteemed Council for necessary action in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution,” he added.

“The Council of Ministers will take necessary measures on proposed amendments to laws and other legislative instruments in accordance with the law,” he said, reminding that the Shura Council is not a representative parliament in a democratic system, and its status and powers will not be affected whether its members are chosen by election or appointment.

The proposed amendments will be put to a public vote and will shift from an electoral system back to appointments.

Sheikh Tamim added that “there are many ways to consult with the Qatari people” and acknowledged that competition among Shura Council candidates occurs within families and tribes, affecting local traditions and social cohesion.

On October 1, 2021, Qatar conducted its first legislative elections since the Shura Council was established in 1972.

The Shura Council is the country’s legislative body. It discusses matters referred by the cabinet, including proposed laws and state policies, reviews the national budget, and asks ministers questions for clarification.

The Council can also make recommendations to the government on public policies. However, it does not have authority over defense, security, economic, or investment matters.