In a concerted and vibrant show of unity, a cohort of Somali political leaders is echoing their vast support for the ongoing military undertakings against notorious terror groups Al-Shabaab and ISIS. Three prominent figures have emerged at the forefront: former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, the past Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire, and esteemed opposition leader Abdirahman Abdishakur Warsame. Their stand represents a robust call for collaboration and strategic foresight in the face of mounting threats.
Mogadishu, in its buzzing press circuit, picked up the fervent declaration on Wednesday of these leaders. They showered praise upon the Somali National Army (SNA), regional forces, and local militias who have committed themselves to the arduous task of uprooting extremism across regions such as Middle Shabelle, Northeastern State, and Bari. Yet, the leaders did not stop at acknowledgment — their words carried a cautioning wisdom, recognizing that Somalia’s internal political rifts and varying security protocols have left chinks in the nation’s defensive armor.
“The prevention and eradication of terrorism is a national priority,” their statement solemnly declared, “achieved only through unity, national cohesion, and an inclusive political strategy. We call on the President to develop a clear and comprehensive national mobilization plan to eradicate terrorist threats from Somalia once and for all.”
This poignant urge for a united front coincides with Somalia’s heightened military offensives against Al-Shabaab and ISIS. November 2024 marked the launch of “Operation Hillaac” by Northeastern State’s security forces, pinpointing ISIS nestles in the Al Miskaad mountains. This offensive seized 250 square kilometers and dismantled 50 militant bases — a formidable blow to northern Somalia’s ISIS strongholds.
Elsewhere, with the backing of U.S. air support, the Somali National Army (SNA) orchestrated precision strikes against Al-Shabaab in Middle Shabelle. A notable instance occurred on February 25, 2025, when a U.S. airstrike near Al-Kowsar took out significant militant operatives, as reported by the U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM).
Nonetheless, Al-Shabaab’s resilience is noteworthy. They adopt guerrilla tactics, dispersing into rural territories to regroup and rekindle their fight with asymmetrical attacks. Analysts persistently voice a critical insight: military victories, while vital, are merely superficial without durable governance and strategic intelligence gathering.
While the opposition unreservedly supports the military ventures, they criticize President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration for a skewed focus on political squabbles over national security imperatives. They observe, with concern, the weakening counterterrorism effectiveness brought about by federal-regional tensions.
“We have repeatedly warned the President,” their statement conveyed, “that political conflicts undermine the fight against terrorism. His administration has engaged in political battles, altered the constitutional framework, and instigated unauthorized electoral rules fueling instability.”
The shadow of political unrest looms, highlighted by December 2024’s clashes in Raskamboni, where federal troops and Jubaland forces disputed over a local election. These conflicts only exacerbate internal discord, granting fertile ground for Al-Shabaab to exploit and regain strategic control.
Amidst these voices, former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo added his sentiment to the national security discourse, underscoring the vital role of unity. “It is our duty to stand with the brave Somali National Army, confronting the enemy on all fronts,” his statement affirmed, while warning against militant groups thriving on disunity.
There exists a unanimous opposition call for a renewed assessment of Somalia’s counterterrorism strategy, pointing to a need for a synergized mobilization plan amalgamating military prowess, intelligence diligence, and robust governance.
“There must be no retreat from the ongoing battle against extremists,” the leaders insisted. “Urgent steps must be taken to address the factors that allowed terrorist groups to re-emerge in previously liberated areas.”
In alignment with global efforts, December 2024 saw the United Nations Security Council’s approval of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This initiative pledged up to 12,626 personnel to fortify Somalia’s counterterrorism operations against Al-Shabaab.
The opposition leaders delivered a stark warning: without swift political reform, Somalia risks a vicious cycle of ephemeral military successes shadowed by militant resurgence. They urge President Mohamud to mend internal divisions, tighten security coordination, and restore national solidarity, fortifying a more potent counterterrorism endeavor.
“We urge the President to act as a neutral leader,” their statement concluded, “guiding Somalia’s security affairs and working to resolve the constitutional disputes that have divided the country. National unity is essential to defeating Al-Shabaab, and without it, our forces will remain vulnerable to setbacks.”
In this unfolding narrative of struggle and strategy, the call for unity and action resonates, an unyielding reminder of what is at stake and the enduring hope for a peaceful Somalia.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
