EDITORIAL | Fahad Yasin, the former Director of Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), recently thrust himself back into the political spotlight with an interview that has stirred some potent emotions and sparked curiosity among observers. His criticisms of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud were sharp, and his forecast for Somalia’s political future seemed gloom-ridden. This prompts a pertinent inquiry: Is Fahad genuinely anguished over Somalia’s trajectory, or is this a meticulously crafted attempt to rekindle his waning political influence?

In the interview, Fahad was notably critical of President Hassan Sheikh, accusing him of setting a dangerous precedent by initiating conflict in his hometown to topple a sitting government. His words carried a warning tone, hinting that Hassan Sheikh might find himself in similar turmoil if he does not gracefully relinquish power at the end of his term. These statements raise eyebrows, sounding more like veiled threats—a hallmark of Fahad’s political playbook. After all, he has successfully orchestrated the rise of candidates and controlled government affairs while staying behind the curtain not once, but twice.

Yet, as we ponder his current accusations, we must ask ourselves: Wasn’t Fahad Yasin one of the principal architects of the instability that plagued Somalia during his own tenure? As the linchpin in former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo’s administration, Fahad was instrumental in consolidating central power at the expense of federal member states and dissenters. His recent pronouncements should be observed not in isolation but as part of a grander scheme to regain political sway—a stratagem that often involves baiting political figures with financial support to secure compliance and control.

Rebranding a Tarnished Image

In the eyes of various political analysts, Fahad’s interview was more than just rhetoric; it was a calculated maneuver designed to refurbish his public image. Once the unrivaled powerhouse of Farmaajo’s regime, his unchecked power played a role in the very disarray that facilitated Farmaajo’s political decline. Now, it seems Fahad is on a mission to reintroduce himself, adopting a religious narrative by translating and presenting a book focused on the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Nairobi.

Is this newfound religious interest sincere, or part of a tactical rebranding? Fahad’s affiliation with the Itahad Islamic organization adds layers to this puzzle. Criticisms of certain Gulf States and Somali leaders peppered his interview, underscoring an enduring investment in Somalia’s future, one that appears anything but passive.

The Gulf Connection: Wealth and Authority

Fahad Yasin’s political tale is richly intertwined with the external financial tapestry, especially tied to Qatar. Historically, his role in directing Qatari funds to bolster Farmaajo’s political endeavors is well-documented, cementing his status as an influential powerbroker in the prior government structure.

During President Hassan Sheikh’s earlier presidential phase from 2012 to 2017, Fahad lingered in the political periphery—a consequence of his inability to harness influence despite securing monetary backing from Qatar. However, Farmaajo’s reign marked Fahad’s emergence as a formidable governmental force, managing defense agendas and political strategies.

Once again, current reports suggest Fahad is positioning himself as a political puppet master. His recent Nairobi engagement with a former Somali prime minister hints at coalition-building for future electoral contests. This leads us to reflect further: Is another protege being tailored to recover control, mirroring his previous puppeteering with Farmaajo?

Clan Dynamics and Fahad Yasin’s Strategic Position

Fahad Yasin’s roots tether him to Beesha Shanaad—the fifth clan—under Somalia’s intricate 4.5 power-sharing formula. Opting to sideline traditional clan alliances, Fahad leveraged foreign patronage and intelligence operations to amass influence across Somalia’s fractured political milieu, steering vital government decisions and institutions with the financial means accrued from his Qatari connections.

What Lies Ahead?

As speculation continues to chum the waters of political discourse concerning Fahad’s ambitions, one observation stands indisputable: Fahad Yasin is far from political retirement. His recent dialogue is suggestive of aspirations extending beyond mere backstage orchestration. While some speculate he may be making a play for the prime ministerial seat, others suspect his plan revolves around grooming another protégé to perpetuate his influence.

During Farmaajo’s administration, accusations of Fahad manipulating state agencies, weaponizing intelligence for political attrition, and orchestrating suppressions against challengers rose to prominence. His maneuverings exacerbated Somalia’s political rifts and undermined trust in its institutional fabric.

In the post-Farmaajo era, stripped of his former imperial might, Fahad now stands on precarious grounds—an outsider looking to regain entry. His recent actions suggest a strategic recalibration. Still, the overarching question lingers: Will Somalia succumb to Fahad’s elaborate political calculus, or will the nation pivot towards emancipation from shadowy power brokers?