If there ever was a moment for unified action, it is undoubtedly now. The former Somali intelligence chief, Fahad Yasin Haji Dahir, extends an urgent appeal to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. His call? To bring together a national forum where minds meet and formulate a robust, collective strategy against the persistent menace of terrorism. The message is clear: unity is not a choice, but a necessity.
Sharing his thoughts openly on X, which many of us still fondly recall as Twitter, Fahad Yasin earnestly proposed setting aside political rifts. In his view, the time has come for President Mohamud to embrace all voices—be they former officials, critics, or other stakeholders. Why? Because the stakes are too high, and diverse ideas could be pivotal in safeguarding Somalia’s future.
“We are ready to put aside any differences of opinion and share with you any advice and examples that can save the country,” wrote Yasin, encapsulating the spirit of collaboration that can fortify a nation’s resolve against terrorism.
Reflecting on his tenure as the Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency, Yasin emphasizes an unconditional approach to these discussions—solutions-driven, not blame-shadowed. In eloquent words, he implores, “Mr. President, this is not the time to blame each other, but rather the time to unite. We hope that you will be the elder of the nation and put aside everything that divides the country and the people.”
His plea for unity arrives amid intensified efforts by the Somali federal government, bolstered by clan militias and global allies, to dismantle the enduring threat posed by Al-Shabaab. This notorious group, with ties to al-Qaeda, continues to disrupt peace, launching lethal ambushes despite losing ground. A harsh reminder of their reach was felt last Tuesday. President Mohamud’s convoy was targeted by a roadside bomb near Villa Somalia, the heart of Mogadishu. Thankfully, the president remains unscathed. However, the incident starkly demonstrates the operational vigor of Al-Shabaab.
For 15 relentless years, Al-Shabaab has been on an insurgent crusade against the federal government, vying to usurp its authority and enforce draconian interpretations of Islamic law. Formally recognized as a terrorist entity by Somalia, the United States, and the United Nations, the group’s ambitions threaten to unravel national stability.
In a commendable demonstration of leadership, President Mohamud has taken his presence to the battlegrounds of Middle Shabelle. Engaging directly with clan militias and military commanders, he aims to maintain and amplify the vigor of the anti-insurgency operations. In this, one is reminded of a timeless truth: the value of a leader willing to lead from the front lines.
So, it begs the question: will this call for unity foster a renewed spirit of collaboration? A national dialogue where historical grievances are set aside for collective progress? Can Somalia, a country marked by resilience and adversity, chart a new path forward through harmony and shared purpose? In the words of Fahad Yasin, the moment is ripe to “bring about a national plan to counter terrorism that threatens the existence of the nation.”
