The Supreme Court of Somalia has upheld the death sentence for Sayid-Ali Moalim Daud who was convicted of murdering his pregnant wife, Luul Abdiaziz, in January 2024. Daud was found guilty of setting his wife on fire in their Mogadishu home, resulting in her death and the loss of their unborn child. The case garnered significant public attention, sparking widespread outrage and bringing attention to domestic violence in Somalia.

The ruling came after Daud’s legal team appealed the original verdict, citing alleged procedural errors in the trial. However, the Supreme Court found no sufficient reason to overturn the death penalty, affirming the decision of the Benadir Regional Court. This marks a significant moment in Somalia’s legal response to gender-based crimes.

Luul Abdiaziz, a mother of six and an employee at Aden Abdulle International Airport has become a symbol in the fight against domestic violence. Her tragic death has fueled discussions on improving the legal protection of women and addressing gender-based violence more effectively in Somalia.

The family of Abdiaziz expressed relief at the Supreme Court’s ruling, feeling justice had been served. While Daud’s defense team has indicated the possibility of further legal actions, their options appear limited following this decision. The case is seen as a critical test of Somalia’s judicial system in addressing severe domestic violence.