New Military Commanders Appointed by Somali President to Bolster Counter al-Shabab Operations

On Monday September 18, 2023, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud took a crucial step in intensifying military efforts against al-Shabab in Galmudug and Hirshabelle states by appointing two army commanders. President Mohamud designated Brigadier General Madey Nurey Sheikh as the Deputy Commander of the Somali National Army, while also promoting Dayah Abdi Abdulle to the esteemed rank of Major General and assigning him as the Commander of the Infantry of the Somali National Army. In an impassioned statement, President Mohamud emphasized the shared responsibility of every Somali citizen in the liberation of their country from the clutches of al-Shabab.

The appointment of these new commanders follows the recent disclosure by the President, where he unveiled the apprehension of numerous military officers accountable for the ill-advised retreat of troops from the frontlines in the Galgadud region. This unfortunate incident served as a setback to the ongoing military operations in Galmudug State. It has been reported that government forces withdrew from El Dheer, Masagaway, Gal’ad, and Budbud in the Galgadud region subsequent to a deadly al-Shabab assault on soldiers stationed in the village of Cosweyne earlier in September.