Hassan Sheikh admits significant losses in Somalia's frontlines, vows accountability

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Hassan Sheikh admits significant losses in Somalia's frontlines, vows accountability

MOGADISHU (HORN OBSERVER) — Somali President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, for the first time made his admission to reveal that Somali government forces and allied clan militias have sustained substantial losses on the frontlines against the terror

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Somali president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

MOGADISHU (HORN OBSERVER) — Somali President, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, for the first time made his admission to reveal that Somali government forces and allied clan militias have sustained substantial losses on the frontlines against the terror group Al-Shabaab and vowed to hold those responsible accountable.

During a Twitter (X) Space discussion on Friday night, he attributed these setbacks to significant errors and misconduct by government officials.

The President specifically addressed the recent Al-Shabaab attack on the government forces stationed in Cows Weyne area of the Galgaduud region, where 190 soldiers lost their lives, dozens were injured and captured, and a substantial quantity of military supplies, equipment, and weapons fell into the hands of terrorist groups.

Speaking on the situation, President Hassan stated, "There is no other place where government forces have suffered such a major loss.”

He acknowledged that Somali forces have been compelled to retreat, emphasizing the need to gather these beleaguered troops, provide them with respite, bolster their morale, and address their shaken spirits.

"Now that the force has been forced to retreat because this reality has touched the young men,” added the President.

During the discussion, President Hassan also highlighted the achievements of his government in the ongoing conflict, citing the significant territorial gains made against insurgent groups in various regions of the country.

He pointed out that government forces, along with local militias, have reclaimed extensive areas from these groups since the conflict’s outset, emphasizing their crucial victories.

Seemingly tired and angry, president Hassan indicated that the initial phase of the operation was concluding in Hirshabelle and Galmudug, with plans for other administrations, including Jubbaland and South West Somalia.

"The war against Al-Shabaab is not over. The government and the people working together are committed to putting an end to those who are accustomed to shedding blood. There is a little bit left to complete,” reiterated President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.

However, he also confronted another pressing issue: the abuse of power and significant errors by certain government officials. The President vowed to hold these individuals accountable without specifying names.

"We are aware that there are major mistakes committed by government officials. We will hold them accountable,” he asserted.

In response to these statements, online discussions among Somalis quickly turned to high-profile figures, with allegations of embezzlement of military logistics and funds to the army. Minister of Defense Abdukadir Mohamed Nur (Jama), Deputy Minister of Information Abdirahman Al-Adaala, and National Intelligence Director Mahad Salad have been implicated in these rumors.

Speculation has arisen that a cabinet reshuffle might be in the works to remove those linked to army embezzlement.

President Hassan’s remarks come as he plans to relocate from Dhusamareb to Maxaas town in the Hiiraan region.

The move aligns with his appeals to Hiiraan clans for militia backup. The relationship between Hiiraan-based Xawaadle and Hassan’s government has been strained due to the Beledweyne crisis, leading former Hiiraan Governor Ali Jeyte to declare his own regional state called Hiiraan State after Hirshabelle authorities removed him from his position.