Somalia’s new parliament has elected Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur, widely known as Adan Madoobe, as Lower House Speaker in a decisive win over his closest rival Hassan Abdinur. Madoobe secured 163 votes to Abdinur’s 89, a commanding victory that reflects his cross-party respect and reputation as a seasoned political figure. His election came after a tense standoff at Mogadishu’s Afisyoone venue, where police loyal to outgoing President Farmaajo initially blocked MPs from entering. Prime Minister Roble intervened, with ATMIS securing the venue and an agreement reached to bar 16 disputed MPs from Elwaq from voting. Madoobe, a veteran politician from the Rahanweyn clan, brings decades of political and parliamentary experience, having served as Speaker and even briefly as President in 2008. Known for his pragmatism and moderate political stance, he is seen as capable of fostering parliamentary cohesion and countering Farmaajo’s influence. His win, coupled with opposition control of both parliamentary chambers, significantly boosts the opposition’s position in the upcoming presidential election. Tactical voting and a key last-minute shift by the Somaliland bloc helped secure his victory. Madoobe’s leadership is expected to focus on constitutional completion, federal strengthening, and a more assertive parliamentary role in governance.