New HirShabelle state MPs sworn in

Newly selected MPs in HirShabelle state were Saturday sworn in at the administrative capital Jowhar marking the beginning of a four year term in office.

The 90 lawmakers took oath of office at a brief ceremony as they prepare to elect a new president.

The MPs elected Mohamed Siyad Barqadle the eldest member to serve as interim speaker in line with parliamentary practice.

The new lawmakers will now elect a new speaker ahead of presidential elections set to kick off within the first week of November.

State MPs will take part in the election of Federal Senators in an exercise set to begin in December.