Remembering Mogadishu's peacemaker elder, champion for IDPs, taken by violence

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Remembering Mogadishu's peacemaker elder, champion for IDPs, taken by violence

MOGADISHU (HORN OBSERVER) – The tragic death of clan elder Muse Harun Adan has sent shockwaves through Mogadishu, as the community mourns the loss of a man renowned for his dedication to peacemaking and aiding vulnerable populations.

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Clan elder Muse Harun Adan killed in Mogadishu on Monday 5 Feb., 2024.

MOGADISHU (HORN OBSERVER) – The tragic death of clan elder Muse Harun Adan has sent shockwaves through Mogadishu, as the community mourns the loss of a man renowned for his dedication to peacemaking and aiding vulnerable populations.

At 61 years old, Adan leaves behind a legacy of service and compassion, survived by his 12 children.

The fateful attack occurred early Monday morning in Mogadishu’s Dayniile district, where Muse and his aide, Nur Hussein, were ambushed and fatally shot by unidentified gunmen.

Family said that the pair had been returning from a displacement camp, where they had been assisting newly arrived families, underscoring Adan’s commitment to aiding those in need.

Today, on February 6, the two slain individuals were laid to rest in Mogadishu, surrounded by grieving family members and community members alike.

A Life of Service

Born in 1963 in the Jalalaqsi district of the Hiiraan region, central Somalia, Muse Harun Adan was raised by his nomadic mother, Mumino Daud Qasim, within the herder community. Known affectionately as "Maqooni” among friends and family, Muse was described as an energetic individual deeply dedicated to serving his community and standing against oppression and injustice.

In 2015, Muse was honored with the title of clan elder for his exceptional leadership qualities. He played a pivotal role in mediating clan disputes and resolving conflicts, fostering peace in communities across the Hiiraan and Middle Shabelle regions.

Muse Harun Adan’s influence extended beyond traditional leadership roles. He actively participated in the selection of members for both the Federal Parliament of Somalia and the Hirshabelle State of Somalia in 2016 and 2021, advocating for increased representation of women in politics despite facing opposition.

His efforts resulted in the historic enrollment of two women into parliament, a testament to his commitment to gender equality and inclusive governance.

Surviving Assassination Attempt

Elder Muse’s commitment to his community came at great personal risk, as he repeatedly faced threats from the militant group Al-Shabaab.

In a harrowing incident on November 3, 2022, he narrowly survived an assassination attempt in Mogadishu, sustaining critical injuries from multiple gunshot wounds to his face and neck.

After nearly a year of intensive treatment in Turkey, he defied the odds and returned to Somalia on March 2, 2023, reaffirming his dedication to serving his people.

"I will continue my work for the community and for the general population without fear. If you can kill me, I am still alive and I am here,” Muse declared upon his return, demonstrating his unwavering resolve in the face of adversity.

Despite receiving continued death threats and residing in a secure hotel, Muse remained committed to his mission of aiding vulnerable populations.

Tragically, on Monday, he ventured out to check on displaced families, only to fall victim to a cowardly attack by armed assailants.

Security sources have confirmed the details of the attack, noting that the perpetrators remain at large, with no group claiming responsibility thus far.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are urged to prioritize the pursuit of justice for elder Muse, his aide Nur Hussein, and their grieving families. And the senseless violence that claimed the life of Muse Harun Adan serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those dedicated to peace and humanitarianism in Somalia.