MOGADISHU, Somalia – New details have emerged about the strained relationship between former intelligence chief Fahad Yasin and former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed alias Farmajo, which could shape the country’s fragile political landscape.
Several sources revealed to Axadlethe complex nature of the relationship between the two men, tragically ending a decade-long cooperation, which at one point threatened the security of the country due to the politicization of the National Intelligence Security Agency (NISA).
According to sources, the disagreement was due to multiple disagreements over key political strategies, including the upcoming Galmudug presidential election. Fahad, who played a central role in driving the controversial policies that marked Farmaajo’s administration and who was widely criticized, was determined to continue to drive these strategies, sources told Garowe Online.
Yasin, who has strong ties to Qatar, reportedly supports the current Galmudug president, Ahmed Kaliye alias Qoorqoor, an idea that Farmajo opposes. Qoorqoor played a key role in maintaining support for Farmajo during the time when the federal states were against him.
But Farmajo resists Fahad’s push for power, and advocates broader consultation and a more cautious approach. This disagreement over who should lead their policy direction – including the decision on whether to support Qoorqoor – has exposed deep divisions within their faction.
Fahad’s refusal to back down and Farmaajo’s insistence on a different path led to the major and public fallout, highlighting growing tensions and power struggles within Somalia’s political landscape, sources said.
Farmajo reportedly held seven sensitive meetings without informing Yasin, creating mistrust among the former political allies. At a recent meeting, Farmajo apologized for the meetings, which Yasin accepted.
However, Yasin proposed creating a seven-member committee to guide his political group’s strategy, a suggestion that Farmajo asked to consider for a month. During this period, Farmajo reportedly consulted with other politicians, asking for advice on how to remove Yasin from the party.
Having learned of the clandestine consultations that some sources say prompted him to announce the end of their political alliance, Yasin had to act quickly to counter them. Since then, he has been developing a strategy to chart his political course.
Furthermore, reliable sources claim that Fahad Yasin has been in talks with potential presidential candidates, and may be seeking foreign funding to influence the race. His ties to Qatar were linked to instability in Somalia during Farmaajo’s rule.
The fracture comes at a time when President Hassan Sheikh’s leadership is also facing challenges amid accusations that power is concentrated in a small group with close ties to the top leadership of Somalia’s federal government.
Hassan Sheikh is fighting for direct elections in Somalia, an idea that has met with resistance due to a lack of consultation. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has nevertheless mobilized parliament to pass legislation crucial to the cause.
AXADLETM
