Sanbalolshe returns to Somalia’s spy agency leadership for 3rd time

MOGADISHU, Somalia - For the third time, Abdullahi Mohamed Ali “Sanbalolshe has been appointed to lead the National Intelligence Security Agency (NISA), the state department responsible for the collection of intelligence in the Horn of Africa nation, which has been struggling with insecurity.

Sanbalolshe, a former Somalia ambassador to the United Kingdom, who also served as the minister for security, will replace Mahad Salad. Mr. Salad, who has been in charge of the agency since 2022, is tipped to be preparing to run for Galmudug state presidency.

Salad enjoys support from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and will face Ahmed Kariye alias QoorQoor, an ally of former President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed alias Farmajo, who recently resurfaced from retirement and has been critical of Hassan Sheikh.

Last month, Garowe Online got hold of the information that Sanbalolshe was set to be appointed as NISA chief. President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud believes that he can transform the spy agency which has previously been linked to political tussles in Somalia.

His appointment comes amid political turmoil in Hirshabelle, following the ousting of the administration in Baladweyne by armed factions declaring an independent state. Notably, Sanbalolshe hails from the Hiran region.

Hiiran region is facing tough times with President Ali Hassan Gudlawe firing two governors in Hiiran within 12 months. Former governor Ali Jeyte Osman was removed from office after disagreeing with Gudlawe, who is serving his first term in office.

Sanbalolshe is inheriting the office which is facing tough times with the country now actively facing Al-Shabaab in central and southern regions. The Somali National Army is being assisted by the US Army and the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) in the battle.

NISA plays an important role in investigating and apprehending criminals linked to the destabilization of the country. In the recent past, NISA has also actively participated in the fight against the group, which is dominant in central and southern regions.

GAROWE ONLINE