Somalia’s President Reappoints General Odowaa Yusuf, Renowned for Suppressing Opposition, as Army Chief

Somalia President Brings Back General Odowaa Yusuf, Noted for Oppositon Tactics, as Army Head

MOGADISHU, Somalia – General Odowaa Yusuf Rage, recognized for his pivotal role when he became the chief of the Somali National Army (SNA) at the tender age of 32 in 2019, has been reappointed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. After nearly a year away from the position, he’s stepping back into the limelight.

Odowaa’s return follows his previous dismissal by President Mohamud, who had replaced him in 2023 with Maj. General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhiyidin. However, the latter faced significant hurdles in quelling the revival of the militant group Al-Shabaab, which constantly pestered military outposts.

Al-Shabaab, linked to Al-Qaeda, has stepped up its attacks, striking army bases and wreaking havoc. This fizzling performance under the current leadership prompted a reshuffle in high command once again.

Though the specifics surrounding Odowaa’s initial removal remain somewhat elusive, some insiders claim he struggled to keep the momentum against Al-Shabaab, an initiative set forth by President Mohamud after taking office in 2022. Gen. Odowaa Yusuf Rage’s earlier tenure saw more promising results by comparison.

Although Muhiyidin’s era didn’t bring marked improvements either, failing to secure essential regions streaked across central and southern Somalia. For Odowaa, returning means tackling lingering security challenges.

Interestingly, Rage’s history is also dotted with tensions with political figures, famously clashing with the president during election campaigns towards the end of Farmajo’s governance. Now, amidst a brewing political storm with President Mohamud eyeing constitutional amendments and election delays, Odowaa’s reappointment carries significant heft.

AXADLETM