Somalia: Hiiraan region discriminated in development, says Ali Jeyte

MOGADISHU, Somalia - Former Hiiraan Governor Ali Jeyte Osman has criticized the federal government and HirShabelle state for what he terms as "unprecedented discrimination" towards the region on development, calling for an immediate change of "this bad attitude".

At Mahas on Saturday, Ali Jeyte, who was recently sacked by HirShabelle leader Ali Gudlawe Hussein, insisted that there has hardly been any major project in Hiiraan, whether done by the federal government or the regional administration, which he accuses of laxity.

Known for his hard stance against Al-Shabaab militants, Jeyte has since declared himself the regional leader of Hiiraan, which he insists is now a federal state. The former governor said the needs of the people in Hiiraan have been neglected.

"Throughout my tenure in Hiiraan, there hasn't been a single project of note," he said. "Whether in terms of securing funds for Somalia's debt or launching other initiatives, nothing substantial has been accomplished. Governance should genuinely cater to the needs of the people, not just offer empty promises."

On Sunday, Jeyte is set to meet President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud who will be visiting Mahas as part of his ongoing trips across the country meant for sensitization of the war against Al-Shabaab. Jeyte was a key figure in the mobilization of locals for the fight against the Al-Qaeda-linked group.

Hassan Sheikh has been urging leaders to unite in the fight against Al-Shabaab, noting that concerted effort and collaboration between all stakeholders will make it easier for the military to liberate the remaining parts of the country from Al-Shabaab. The group is fighting to topple the fragile UN-backed federal government of Somalia.

The second phase of operations against the Al-Shabaab is set to resume in Jubaland and Southwest states, but the military is yet to announce exact dates and months for the commencement of the crackdown. The African Union Transition Mission in Somalia [ATMIS] and the US Africa Command will participate in the war.

GAROWE ONLINE