Somalia makes changes in government and Police

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Somalia's Cabinet made slight changes in the security and executive sectors on Wednesday, appointing Major General Sulub Ahmed Firin as the new Deputy Minister in charge of Transport and Aviation, a key ministry in the country.

Major General Sulub's appointment comes slightly over 24 hours after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud promoted him from the rank of Brigadier General, to serve as the Police Commissioner. He had been promoted along with many other officers.

The appointment means he is set to transition to his new role as the officials search for his replacement from within the police service. There have been rumours that his successor shall come from the state of Puntland, which is the most stable of Somalia's federal units.

And true to the speculations, the Council of Ministers of the Federal Government of Somalia has today approved the appointment of General Asad Osman Abdullahi as the new Commander of the Somali Police Force, following the proposal by the Ministry of Internal Security.

General Asad, who served as the Commander of the Puntland Security Forces (PSF) from 2007 to 2018, brings extensive knowledge and experience in military affairs.

With an extensive background in national security, including his service as the Commander of the Somali Darawish Forces and State Minister for Security, Firin brings a wealth of security experience to the ministry, state media reports.

Firin has been in charge of the police since last year and he is credited for monumental reforms, including successful operations across the country which have brought about stability. The country is still actively fighting the al-Shabaab militants.

He is set to address challenges in the transport sector given his strong background in the police service. The Al-Shabab militants have often targeted the transport and aviation sector, almost causing a standstill over the years.

His appointment comes as Somalia continues efforts to modernize its transport and aviation infrastructure, which is critical to national recovery and growth. Road transport in Somalia is challenging with the majority now switching to aviation which is safe and faster.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has been having a cordial relationship with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and their stint in power could be one of the most stable, without much wrangles. The PM wields immense powers in the reconstitution and formation of government.

GAROWE ONLINE