Northeastern State Dismisses Prime Minister’s Commendation, Seeks Federal Support to Combat ISIS
FILE – Mohamud Aydid Dirir, Northeastern State’s Minister of Information, making waves during a public address.
Kismayo (AX) – In a tale as old as time, the clash between Northeastern State and the federal government of Somalia has rekindled, this time over a torrent of words unleashed by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre. The Prime Minister, in a recent display of commendation, hailed Northeastern State’s military forces for their valiant anti-ISIS operations in the rugged terrains of the Bari region. However, what was intended as an olive branch seems more like an old thorn in Northeastern State’s side.
Enter Mohamud Aydid Dirir, Northeastern State’s firebrand Minister of Information. On a lively Thursday, Dirir did not mince his words as he took a verbal sledgehammer to the Prime Minister’s remarks. While appreciating the recognition, his fervent message was clear: praise without substantial support is like a mirage in the desert. Dirir laid it out bare: Northeastern State doesn’t just deserve pleasantries—they need tangible backing—military supplies, medical aid, the heavy-duty equipment of war, financial injections, and the removal of bureaucratic barriers constricting essential development projects.
“The Prime Minister’s praise? A bit misleading, if you ask me,” Dirir declared, with the gravity of a seasoned statesman. “Northeastern State’s forces are born from our blood and bone—our own kin stepping up to confront terrorism head-on. Did you ever see a dozen terrorist factions playing leapfrog with detonations? Unheard of! What we’re pleading for is constitutional backing, an inherent right for the people of Northeastern State.”
In recent triumphs, Northeastern State’s valiant forces have seized control of eight strategic bases in the Bari region, previously under ISIS’s menacing grip. These victories, akin to a cinematic climax, have drawn widespread applause—from both Somali citizens warmly rooting from afar, and an international audience holding its collective breath. Minister Dirir seized this moment to extend heartfelt thanks to those who have recognized and celebrated Northeastern State’s troops fighting spirit.
But amidst the accolades, there’s a sharper undercurrent. Dirir wasn’t just dealing in laurels; he also countered accusations that the federal government posed roadblocks to development projects aimed at uplifting Northeastern State. The plot thickens as Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre firmly rebutted these claims. He stood his ground, asserting that the federal government did not naysay any such projects, going further to suggest that Northeastern State’s own actions have often curtailed fruitful collaborations with federal agencies.
From his podium, the Prime Minister reiterated a message of unwavering support. He reaffirmed the federal government’s intention to haul in support—whatever it takes—to bolster Northeastern State’s gallant efforts squaring off against ISIS. Yet, Dirir and his counterparts seem to be saying: “We’ve heard that story before. Show us the goods!”
The situation paints a vivid picture of a complex political dance—despite shared goals, there are these intricate choreography steps one misses, leading to missteps and miscommunications. Underneath the rhythmic clamor of diplomatic sparring, one question emerges: can Northeastern State and the federal government rhythmically sync to combat a common enemy, easing internal discord while fighting a threatening insurgency? One can only hope they find their groove soon.
The unfolding narrative of Northeastern State and the federal relations resembles a family squabble over Sunday dinner—a bit of friction doesn’t stink up the whole house, but mends only come when differences are sincerely addressed and actions align with promises. The stakes, punctuated by the persistent threat of terrorism, demand more than just words—they require unified, decisive action.
Time will tell if the federal praise transforms into practical aid, or merely echoes in the winds of the Somali landscape, whisking promises away into an unfinished symphony. Stay tuned.
Report By Axadle
Edited by: Ali Musa
alimusa@axadletimes.com
Axadle international–Monitoring
