Somalia Mourns the Passing of Mohamed Ali Yusuf Gaagaab, Architect of the Federal Constitution

by: Horn Observer Contributor | 04 December 2024 01:45

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Somalia Mourns the Passing of Mohamed Ali Yusuf Gaagaab, Architect of the Federal Constitution

MOGADISHU, Somalia (HORN OBSERVER) - Senator Mohamed Ali Yusuf (Gaagaab), a towering figure in Somali politics and governance, passed away in Turkey, where he had been receiving medical treatment, his family and government officials announced on Tues

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Mohamed Ali Yusuf (Gaagaab), a towering figure in Somali politics and governance, passed away in Turkey.

MOGADISHU, Somalia (HORN OBSERVER) - Senator Mohamed Ali Yusuf (Gaagaab), a towering figure in Somali politics and governance, passed away in Turkey, where he had been receiving medical treatment, his family and government officials announced on Tuesday.

Gaagaab, 80, was born in 1944 in Godob Jiiraan.

He leaves behind a legacy as a statesman who played a pivotal role in shaping Somalia’s federal constitution.

Often described as the architect of Somalia’s federal constitution, Gaagaab was part of the first team to draft the Transitional Charter for the Somali Transitional Federal Government in 2004.

His contributions to Somalia laid the groundwork for the current federal system and were instrumental in Somalia’s state-building efforts.

In addition to his constitutional work, Gaagaab served as Puntland’s Vice President and Minister of Finance, roles in which he significantly influenced the region's governance.

In 2021, he was elected to the Somali Senate, representing Puntland in the Upper House of Parliament through elections held in Garowe.

Leaders and political figures from across Somalia have expressed their condolences.

Former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed lauded Gaagaab’s contributions, stating: "Senator Gaagaab was a charismatic politician and national elder who contributed greatly to the building of the Somali state."

Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni also mourned Gaagaab’s passing, describing him as a dedicated servant of the nation: "May God have mercy on him and grant him paradise. Mohamed Ali Yusuf (Gaagaab), the former Vice President of Puntland and a senator in Somalia's Upper House, was an official who served the country and the people. He was one of the founders of Puntland and held various positions with distinction."

Gaagaab’s passing marks the loss of a visionary leader whose contributions have shaped Somalia’s political landscape and inspired generations. His legacy will be remembered as a cornerstone of Somalia’s federal system and governance.