Somalias

The Call for Continued Support in Somalia’s Fight Against Terrorism Mogadishu (AX) — The plight of Somalia has reached a point where the international community's attention is paramount. Recently, a United Nations expert vociferously urged global partners not to turn their backs on Somalia, as the nation grapples with persistent and intricate challenges in its battle against terrorism. During a detailed visit that concluded on Wednesday, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights and counter-terrorism, Ben Saul, took a…

Egypt Condemns Devastating Attack in Mogadishu Mogadishu (AX) – In a profound expression of empathy and solidarity, Egypt has condemned the tragic suicide bombing that occurred at the Damanyo military base in Mogadishu on Sunday. This heinous act took the lives of at least 20 individuals and left 15 others with grievous injuries. Such events raise difficult questions: How can communities come together in the face of such violence? What steps must be taken to foster resilience and healing? The Egyptian Foreign Ministry…

Has Al-Shabaab Infiltrated the Somali National Army? MOQOKORI, Somalia - Intrigue and tragedy struck yet again in Moqokori, a town nestled within the troubled Hiiraan region of central Somalia. This past Saturday, the serenity of the army was violently altered when a senior Somali National Army (SNA) officer was shockingly gunned down by a lower-ranking soldier. The backdrop to this chilling event is the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab, a militant group intent on destabilizing the currently fragile, UN-backed…

Jubaland Raises Alarm Over President’s Actions Garowe (AX) — In a significant political development that could have far-reaching consequences for Somalia, Jubaland’s regional government has expressed serious concerns regarding the administration of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. They accuse him of deviations from the federal constitution, suggesting that the actions he is taking may steer the nation toward a one-party system, thus jeopardizing its fragile stability amidst escalating insecurity.…

Power Play in Somali Politics: Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's Bold Move MOGADISHU, Somalia - In the intricate labyrinth of Somali politics, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has set a daring new course. With the next election looming on the horizon, he has unveiled a political party that could alter the country's trajectory. This venture, while bold, raises questions about potential fractures within Somalia and whether this strategy is a step toward greater unity or deeper division. The freshly minted Justice and Solidarity Party…

Reflections on Somalia's Chaotic History: A Fragile State in Perpetual Turmoil Among those endeavoring to understand Somalia's present challenges, a poignant question looms: What went wrong? This inquiry has haunted Somali intellectuals, writers, and activists for decades, many attributing the roots of today’s turmoil to the disintegration of the socialist military regime in the 1990s, a regime notably served by Sheikh, a once-prominent figure. The backdrop of this narrative traces back to 1969 when a military coup…

U.S. Stands Firm Against Somalia’s National Consultative Council Conclusions Mogadishu, Somalia – The air was tense as the United States declared its opposition to the outcomes of the recently concluded National Consultative Council (NCC) meeting held in the heart of Mogadishu. Although the city brims with life and the energy of its people, the meeting was overshadowed by criticism, primarily due to its lack of inclusivity—a term often brandished, yet critical when it comes to governance. The absence of key stakeholders…

Mogadishu (AX) – In a significant announcement that echoes the aspirations of many Somali citizens, Chairman Abdikarin Ahmed Hassan of the National Electoral Commission revealed on Thursday an extension of the voter registration period for local council elections in the Banadir region. This decision, made after thoughtful consideration, responds to the urgent need for greater public participation in the electoral process. During a press conference held at the commission's headquarters in Mogadishu, Abdikarin articulated…

Enhancing Somalia's Diplomatic Engagement: A Step Towards a Brighter Future Mogadishu (AX) — In an engaging and insightful virtual meeting on Thursday, Somalia's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, brought together the nation’s ambassadors, permanent representatives, and consuls general. The main goal? To enhance diplomatic coordination and strengthen international relationships. An endeavor that is both ambitious and vital for the nation's future. The meeting served as a…

Deepening the Political Rift: Somalia’s National Discussions Exclude Key Regions MOGADISHU, Somalia - The recent gathering of Somalia's National Consultative Council (NCC) ended without the participation of leaders from Jubaland and Northeastern State. This exclusion raises a spotlight on the widening cracks in Somalia's leadership landscape, posing questions about the nation's direction ahead of upcoming elections. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, often perceived as a divisive figure, spearheaded the meeting. Joined by…