Somalia: Interior Minister suspends the permanent secretary for abuse of power

MOGADISHU, Somalia- In a letter released by the Minister of Interior and Federal Affairs, the permanent secretary for the Ministry, Yahya Ali Ibrahim was suspended on Saturday, Garowe Online reports.

Minister Abdi Farah Saed “Juha” suspended Ibrahim for refusing to abide to orders from top government officials and obstructing Interior Ministry’s duties and tasks.

Ibrahim who is temporarily occupying the post, was said he rejected to accept previous warning filed against him by his superiors, according to the letter released today.

In the letter, he was also accused of abusing power and misconduct at work, as many of his colleagues at the Ministry have filed complaints against him. This comes amid plans by the Interior Ministry to kick start the national reconciliation program in the country.

On the other hand, reports said that Ibrahim has rejected the decision made by Interior Minister Juha to suspend him from his duties. Close sources to the matter told GO that Ibrahim has indicated the move is unlawful and will not adhere to Minister's instruction.

This is not the first time a government official has refused the order of his superiors, as many officials spent many years working at the government institutions and believe to be immune from suspension and replacement.

So far it is not clear the course of action that the Interior Ministry and the office of the Prime Minister will take to solve the standoff with an official of the Interior Ministry.

GAROWEONLINE