Human Rights Watch argues for justice reform in Somalia

In a statement submitted to the UN Human Rights Council, Human Rights Watch has stressed the need for justice reform in Somalia:

Lack of progress on the government’s plans to reform and equip the civilian justice system has left the military court administering justice for a broad range of cases and defendants in proceedings that fall short of international fair trial standards. Despite serious due process concerns, the military court has sentenced numerous defendants to death: 13 executions have taken place in Mogadishu in 2014-9 since July alone.

The Somali government should immediately impose a moratorium on the death penalty, move forward with its reform agendas, and create an enabling environment for the prosecution of sexual violence.  This includes pressing the AMISOM [African Union Mission in Somalia] leadership to ensure credible and impartial investigations into allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse by AMISOM forces that ensure the safety of victims and witnesses.

As noted here, three more death sentences were handed down just the other day by the Somali military court. The HRW statement also suggests that "the UN should also oversee investigations into abuses by AMISOM forces."