Complex Journeys in Northeastern State’s Battle Against Extremism

Garowe (AX) — In a frank and deeply revealing address, the Minister of Justice and Religious Affairs in Northeastern State, Mohamed Abdiwahaab, made some bold assertions about the national strategy—or lack thereof—in combating violent extremism. His candid reflections might catch one off-guard. Could it be that the very fabric of national unity needed to fortify against threats like Al-Shabaab and the Islamic State (IS) is fraying at the seams?

Abdiwahaab didn’t mince words. He criticized Somalia’s federal government for what he perceives as a disjointed approach in tackling these existential threats, hinting at a leadership void that’s prevailing in the collective fight against terrorism.

“Southern Somalia is overrun by terrorists—not just due to circumstances, but because there is no cohesive government, no sustained effort, and no unified vision to combat extremism,” he said, painting a picture that is as complex as it is troubling.

The implications of such a breakdown in strategic unity make one wonder: Are regional ambitions overshadowing national security?

Meanwhile, in the rugged terrains of the Al Miskaad mountains in the Bari region, Northeastern State is waging its own war against IS militants. The launch of Operation Hilaac in late 2024 speaks volumes about their resolve. This military offensive has yielded significant gains—over 250 square kilometers of territory reclaimed, and 50 militant bases dismantled, marking what some might call a rare glimpse of hope. These statistics are the story of a relentless pursuit for peace, echoing the courage of those who march forward in this dangerous struggle.

And yet, the gap between Northeastern State and the federal government in Mogadishu seems to widen. The simmering tensions reached a boiling point in 2024 when Northeastern State decided to halt its cooperation with the federal administration, citing insurmountable political disagreements. What happens when joint operations falter? The cracks left in the wake of this severed partnership allow seepages of insecurity as federal forces strive—or perhaps struggle—to mount a coordinated response against Al-Shabaab and IS. It’s problematic, isn’t it, when two entities charged with securing citizens are not on the same page?

Yet, the finger-pointing doesn’t end there. Somalia’s federal government has its own grievances. The Foreign Minister has publicly accused Northeastern State of shunning offers of federal help in its battle against IS, attributing such refusal to why security vulnerabilities in the region have exacerbated. As these narratives unfold, one cannot help but ponder: could more inclusive dialogue bridge these divides?

This fraught relationship highlights the need for introspection. Might the solution lie in genuinely coming to terms with shared goals? Maybe nurturing these conversations are just as critical as military victories. As philosophical as it might sound, peace often demands persistence, partnerships, and above all, a shared vision. It reminds me of an African proverb: “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

In essence, what stands at the crossroads is more than just strategic disagreements—it’s a test of allegiance to peace and stability. The unfolding events surrounding Northeastern State’s fight against extremism could well prompt a rethinking of priorities, both locally and nationally. In this turbulent journey, one must wonder, what legacy will this generation leave for the next?