Somali

In an important move for Somalia, the nation's two-chamber parliament gave the nod to essential electoral laws on Monday. These regulations, covering election procedures, political parties, and organizations, as well as the foundation of an electoral commission, came to life. Minister of Interior, Ali Yusuf Ali Hoosh, brought these laws to the table. All 170 lawmakers in attendance said yes, in unison. As reported by Sadia Yassin Haji Samatar, the House of the People's second Deputy Speaker, the measures sailed through with…

Mogadishu (AX) — In a decisive operation on Monday, Somali government forces managed to eliminate at least six al-Shabab militants, including two prominent leaders, near Qansah Dhere in the Bay region. The confrontation occurred in Weel-Manas, which is a rustic hamlet about 15 kilometers from Qansah Dhere. This small village often finds itself amidst the conflict due to its strategic location. Military spokespersons shared with local media outlets that the deceased key figures of al-Shabab were identified as Nur Keerow…

In the bustling city of Riyadh, an urgent summit has convened under the auspices of Saudi Arabia, bringing together voices from across the Arab and Islamic sphere. Among the distinguished attendees is Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who has traveled to Saudi Arabia to address the rising turmoil in Gaza and Lebanon. CREDIT/ Villa Somalia RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AX) — With a backdrop of heightened tension, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud from Somalia touched down in Riyadh this Monday. He joins an assembly of prominent…

Mogadishu (AX) — Internet personality Ramsey Khalid Ismael, infamously recognized by his online moniker "Johnny Somali," finds himself the center of controversy in Japan and South Korea. His offensive antics have not only triggered public outcry and legal repercussions but have also riled up the Somali diaspora. They believe his actions have unjustly stained their community's name. Though Ismael sports the nickname "Johnny Somali," he lacks Somali roots—he has openly expressed that he is of Ethiopian descent. At just…

Somali Lawmakers Convene in Kismayo to Challenge Central Government's Voting Proposals KISMAYO, Somalia — Over 30 legislators from across Somalia have assembled in Kismayo, Jubbaland's current administrative hub, to express discontent with the national government's approach. Initially slated for Friday, the meeting was rescheduled, aiming to enhance participation, as per local broadcasts. Organized by Jubbaland's President, Ahmed Madobe, the convening sought to tackle growing differences between regional leaders and…

The bustling city of Mogadishu recently witnessed a significant diplomatic rendezvous at its Ministry of Foreign Affairs. On Thursday, Somali Foreign Minister Ambassador Ahmed Moalim Fiqi sat down with his Egyptian counterpart, Ambassador Mohamed El-Baz, to explore opportunities to enhance the bonds between their nations. This gathering wasn't just a run-of-the-mill diplomatic meeting, but rather, a crucial dialogue to fortify the ties that have such rich, historical roots. Within the hushed conference room, shaded by the…

In the intense tapestry of Somalia's ongoing struggle against al-Shabab, recent clashes have painted a stark picture of both victories and the persisting threat of this militant group. It's reported that over 20 al-Shabab fighters fell during a skirmish, marking another chapter in this lengthy conflict. A regional official remarked on the encounter, hinting at its pivotal outcomes: "This was a significant blow to the militants." Let's rewind to last year, when Somali forces orchestrated a high-stakes operation in the…

NAIROBI, Kenya (AX) — "The sorrow of a father knows no bounds when faced with the unthinkable." That's how one could describe the heartache of Abdi Moalin Nur, whose daughter, Deka Abdinoor Qorane, became a victim of a grisly crime. Deka's dismembered remains were heartbreakingly discovered near Nairobi's Langata Cemetery, leaving her family grappling with unimaginable grief. Her suspected killer, a man now associated with a string of savage murders targeting Somali women in Kenya, brings Nur's nightmare into sharp, painful…

Mogadishu (AX)— In an intriguing turn of events, the former head honcho of the Somali intelligence agency, Fahad Yasin, is urging PM Hamza Abdi Barre to roll up his sleeves and tackle the brewing political discord with Jubaland's top dog, Ahmed Madobe. According to Yasin, this situation is a pivotal moment for Hamza's administration—a "crucial test" if you will. For those unfamiliar with Yasin, he's been a bit of a lightning rod in Somali politics, known for his close ties with ex-President Farmajo. But he's dropping some…

Mogadishu (AX) — Donald Trump's return to the presidency has sent shivers through immigrant groups across America, especially among Somali communities now wrestling with fresh anxieties over deportation. His campaign emphasized a stringent approach toward undocumented migrants, pledging historic levels of deportation. This has stirred alarm particularly among Somali families who view North America as a sanctuary and now fear their settled lives might face upheaval. Many are considering the possibility of relocating to…