Somalia: Army commander Defends His Record and Criticizes Promotion Practices After Sacking

KISMAYO, Somalia - Hours after his unprecedented dismissal from the Somali National Army (SNA), Major Arab Dheeg Ahmed, the commander of the 162nd battalion of the Danab Special Forces, said he does not regret his removal from the disciplined forces having served to the 'best of my ability'.

In a feud that is building in Jubaland, Dheeg, a senior frontline commander in the fight against Al-Shabaab, was targeted for his defense of the officers who have been on the battlefield, having been overlooked in recent promotions favouring 'newcomers'.

But with composure and without blame, Dheeg thanked the military for offering him a chance to serve the people of Somalia, adding that he cherishes every moment he leads the forces.

"Today, I have been relieved of my duties after serving for four years and six months. I worked tirelessly for my religion, country, and people to the best of my ability," he posted on Facebook. He hinted at revealing the reasons behind his dismissal at an unspecified later date.

He congratulated his successor, Arif Hire Salad, calling him "the most deserving individual for this critical role." He pledged to hand over the command with dignity and respect, describing the leadership transition as an opportunity to strengthen the battalion's mission.

Before his removal, Ahmed had contested promotions given to junior officers, particularly those targeted by the government of Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who is accused of 'buying loyalty' to frustrate regional leader Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe of Jubaland

"The promotions should have been awarded to the Danab forces who have risked their lives securing Jubbaland," he wrote while defending soldiers who have defended the country on the frontlines in the war against al-Shabaab militants.

The Danab Special Forces are trained and equipped by Americans and take part in technical operations in pursuit of the Al-Shabaab militants across the country. The United States has often lauded the contingent for serving with 'diligence and honesty'.

GAROWE ONLINE