The Supreme Court of Somalia affirms the death penalty for an individual who set fire to his pregnant wife.

Mogadishu-Jidbaale: The Supreme Court of Somalia has affirmed the death sentence of Sayid Ali Moalim Daoud for the homicide of his pregnant spouse, Luul Sheikh Abdiaziz, dismissing his appeal and validating the decisions of the lower courts. Chief Justice Bashe Ahmed Yusuf pronounced the decision, adding that Daoud had been found guilty of willfully killing his wife. The conclusive verdict culminates a nine-month court procedure that has incited public indignation and highlighted the pressing need to confront domestic abuse in Somalia.

Daoud was charged with igniting his wife at their residence in Mogadishu in late January 2024 during a domestic altercation. Luul, a valued employee at Aden Abdulle International Airport and mother of six, died from her injuries at Erdogan Hospital. During the trial, Daoud acknowledged starting the fire but said that it was not his intention to cause her death. The prosecutors replied with evidence, including the charcoal remnants of Abdiaziz’s phone and testimonials from witnesses, including their children, suggesting that Daoud’s acts were purposeful.

The Banadir Regional Court first condemned Daoud to death on March 6. Despite the defense’s position that the fire was unintentional, the Banadir Court of Appeal affirmed the death sentence after repeated hearings. The Supreme Court’s ruling, issued by Chief Justice Yusuf, upheld the lower courts’ determinations and mandated the prompt execution of the punishment.

The family of Luul Sheikh Abdiaziz expressed satisfaction over the Supreme Court’s judgment after months of pursuing justice. They refused to interrogate Luul until a judgment was rendered and rejected proposals of “blood money” for Daoud’s release. Luul’s relatives urged that Daoud’s death be carried out promptly.