Somalia: Puntland Minister suspended over corruption allegation

GAROWE, Puntland- The President of Somalia’s northeastern region of Puntland, Abdiwali Mohamed Ali “Gaas” is believed to have suspended his Livestock Minister Abdi jamal Osman over corruption allegation of development projects managed by the Ministry, Garowe Online reports.

Sources tell GO that Puntland administration didn’t release official document in regard to the move, but indicated that Parliament committee and members of the civil society have filed complaints accusing the Minister of mismanaging projects funded by the African Development Bank.

Those projects aimed to improve livestock sector in all Puntland regions, but overshadowed by corruption and funds misappropriation, which led projects not to be implemented according the desired plans. 

However, this is the first time that President Ali has suspended a cabinet minister from his post over graft allegation, despite mounting corruption scandals against other officials from his government.

Other sources noted that relation between President Ali and Osman has worsen recently despite the latter being a strong ally for Ali in the past 3 years. 

The suspension coincides with new appointment by Puntland President who picked new Minister of deputy Minister of information and State Ministers on Sunday.

GAROWEONLINE