Ex-Somali president says Al-Shabaab regrouped after Govt failure in war

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed says the security situation in Somalia has significantly deteriorated in the past two years, arguing that the al-Shabaab militants have regrouped, exposing civilians to uncertainty.

In a press statement, the former leader who is credited for evicting the militants from Mogadishu said the influx of illegal arms smuggled into Somalia in recent months has exacerbated existing tensions and conflicts, particularly in regions already grappling with the presence of extremist groups such as Al-Shabaab.

According to him, Al-Shabaab once thought to be on the retreat, has managed to regroup and grow stronger, posing a significant threat to our security and stability. The militants have been fighting to topple the fragile UN-backed federal government of Somalia.

Last week, Al-Shabaab suffered heavy losses in Jubaland after an attempted raid at three military bases, in an incident that left over 150 fighters dead. The group, however, claimed it killed over 70 members of the Somali National Army (SNA) and Jubaland Darwish forces.

Despite the achievements, the government has been faulted for delaying the second phase of operations against Al-Shabaab, which was supposed to be activated in Jubaland and Southwest states but has faced unprecedented delays.

With the delays not yet solved, the Al-Shabaab has continued to inflict losses on regional troops and innocent civilians according to the former leader. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud had pledged to defeat Al-Shabaab by the end of 2024.

In light of these developments, Sharif Sheikh Ahmed said, the prospect of holding a popular vote shortly seems increasingly remote. The trust among the Somali people has been damaged, he added in the statement.

The current administration's plans to amend the constitution pose a grave danger to our nation's stability and unity, he said, noting that the proposed changes threaten to undermine the delicate balance of power and could lead to further conflicts and divisions.

GAROWE ONLINE