HEADLINES:

Somalia:War to Defeat Al Shabab Militarily

0
Thursday December 01, 2022 - 08:16:33 in Articles by Super Admin
  • Visits: 4718
  • (Rating 0.0/5 Stars) Total Votes: 0
  • 0 0
  • Share via Social Media

    Somalia:War to Defeat Al Shabab Militarily

    President HSM's Proclamation to Defeat Al-Shabab by Force in Somalia To overcome the complex problems of civil war, state fragility, and underdevelopment, the Somali people supported risky political changes for a government that promotes freedo

    Share on Twitter Share on facebook Share on Digg Share on Stumbleupon Share on Delicious Share on Google Plus

President HSM's Proclamation to Defeat Al-Shabab by Force in Somalia To overcome the complex problems of civil war, state fragility, and underdevelopment, the Somali people supported risky political changes for a government that promotes freedom, justice, peace, and prosperity in Somalia. For example, the Islamic movements enjoyed popular support to end the brutal reigns of warlords and the military occupation of Ethiopia and establish new government.

But Al-Shabab that splintered from the Islamic movements lost public support after it morphed into terrorist group affiliated with Al-Qaida and started committing unspeakable atrocities against Somalis. Besides killing and maiming thousands of innocent Somalis, destroying private properties, Al-Shabab impeded economic development and delivery of humanitarian assistance forcing millions of Somalis into internally displaced camps and migration (Tahrib) for survival. The South-Central of Somalia became safe haven for Al-Shabab.

Sadly, under the administration of president Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo (2017-2022), Al-Shabab took over the power, control, and resources of the federal government, invaded Ethiopia, and provided support to international terrorist groups. The United Nations (UN), the United States Government (USG), the European Union (EU), and the African Union (AU)- were aware of the growing power and threats of Al-Shabab and the collusion between the federal government and Al-Shabab but decided to cover-up to the peril of the Somali people. 

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud (HSM) elected for second time on May 15, 2022, vowed to eliminate Al-Shabab by force in Somalia. In fact, the liberation of Somalia from the brutal grips of Al-Shabab is the first pillar of the six pillars of the federal government’s program approved by the House of the people of the Federal Parliament. 

To make the vow of "no negotiation with Al-Shabab” mandatory, on July 19, President HSM wrote op-ed titled "Somalia’s President Wants Help to Fight Africa’s Terrorist Groups,” and on October 15, wrote another open-ed titled "There is no Turning Back: We Must Finish Off Al Shabab,” published by international media. He undertook domestic and foreign trips for mobilization of support. He engaged the presidents of the Federal Member States (FMS) to fulfill their share of responsibilities. 

President HSM’s proclamation set the stage for brutal and violent confrontation between Al-Shabab and federal government. Al-Shabab didn’t waste time and started waging violent attacks against government forces and civilians to gain the upper-hand.  


The president’s proclamation hinges on three elements – complete defeat of Al-Shabab militarily, fight against Al-Shabab’s distortion of Islamic faith, and closing the income generating sources of Al-Shabab. While the implementation of the first element is the key, the second element represents a groundbreaking in the combat against radicalism, terrorism, and opposition to the Westphalian state in Somalia. Given the peculiar financial situation of Somalia, the implementation of the third element requires diligent approach. The financial system of Somalia is vulnerable to foreign recrimination and harm. 

President HSM rightly argued that the complete defeat of Al Shabab is a precondition to fast-track the long-delayed state building process and to fulfil the 17 Goals of 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. However, studies and assessments conducted about the performance of Somali Elite and the foreign influence in Somali politics revealed the invincibility or impossibility of defeating Al Shabab militarily and the inevitability of negotiation with Al Shabab to save Somalia from "intractable war with no end in sight.” Most probably, the International Partners of Somalia are receptive to the findings of the studies and assessments conducted by their scholars. 

The International Crisis Group (ICG), a reputable international organization, proposed negotiation with-Al Shabab. On June 21, 2022, ICG issued 46-page report under the title, "Considering Political Engagement with Al Shabab in Somalia. 

The conclusion of the report is based on how long the war with Al Shabab continued -fifteen years –; and its devastation; the failure of the efforts of the federal government, FMS, and the International Partners to defeat Al Shabab militarily for 15 years; the waning of the international support; the effectiveness, adaptation, resilience to counter-insurgency campaigns and setbacks, and the deep entrenchment in the Somali society, particularly in the South Central Somalia Al-Shabab has demonstrated in the last 15 years; and the expected departure of the AU troops in 2024. The report argues that "even new leadership is unlikely to prevail over Al-Shabab by force alone.” 

The report is not denying the challenges to dialogue with Al Shabab, but it is insisting that the alternative is never-ending war with Al-Shabab.  It contends that given the ineffectiveness of the security forces of the federal government in the last 15 years, the achievement of President HSM’s goal of conclusive defeat of Al Shabab seems almost impossible. Finally, the report points out that the promise of peace among Somalis by President HSM raises the question, "whether that peace is inclusive and extends to Al-Shabab?” 

President HSM’s proclamation diverges from the long-standing US government counter-insurgency strategy based on disruption, degradation, and containment. Therefore, President HSM’s proclamation of "no negotiation with Al Shabab” faces the challenge of overcoming the skepticism and intrigues of locals and foreigners.

Additional obstacles to the successful implementation of President HSM’s proclamation  include the unresolved political, security, and economic problems left behind by former government of president Farmajo; the incapacity of federal and state institutions to develop and manage a strategy for defeating Al-Shabab in short time; the uncertainty about the support needed for the participation of civilians "Ma’awisleey,” which means "civilians dressed with  Sarong,” in the war against Al-Shabab; the messiness of US Counter-terrorism policy; the lack of patriotism, morality, and civic responsibility of the Somali Elite accused of "channeling their energy into bickering  over power and resources, leaving the struggle against Al Shabab a secondary concern (ICG);” the freedom of the presidents of the FMS to ignore or sabotage the efforts of the federal government; clan rivalries; and the mysterious fate of the Somali forces in Eritrea. The renewal of the arms embargo on Somalia expresses the contempt and poor rating of the UN Security Council towards the whole Somali State. 

So far, the presidents of the FMS are on vacation, bystanders, and saboteurs of the campaign against Al-Shabab. The reticence of the international partners of Somalia in supporting the war against Al Shabab reinforces the narrative about the invincibility of Al Shabab. The defeat of Al-Shabab militarily will contribute to averting famine and climate change disasters in Somalia. 

To prevent constant attacks and threats against liberated areas in Hirshabelle and Galmudug States or other places, the entire nation must be on war-footing. Without restricting the freedom and movements of the citizens, the federal government, the FMS, and Benadir Region must mobilize the citizens for vigilance and defense against violent attacks from Al-Shabab. The efforts of Somalis should be complemented by quick support from the international partners to provide protection, administration, and stabilization to the areas liberated from Al-Shabab. 

Without sacrificing other pillars of the federal government’s program, the implementation of President HSM’s proclamation requires synchronized efforts of the federal government, FMS, the International Partners, and the Somali people at all levels. The fight against Al-Shabab tests the symbiotic working relationship between the federal and state governments and the respect of the articles 47, 87 (1) and 90 (a, b) of the provisional constitution, and the recognition that Al-Shabab is an existential threat to Somalia. 

The momentum of the war against Al-Shabab should not fizzle. The leaders of the FMS and the international partners of Somalia must show will and determination in the liberation of Somalia by force from the bondages of Al-Shabab as quickly as possible. The alternative will be a long-term disaster for Somalia.  


Dr. Mohamud M. Uluso

[email protected]

Share on Social Media

Kenyan police officer killed, 2 injured in al-Shabab attack

Kenyan police officer killed, 2 injured in al-Shabab attack Full Article

 

Al-Shabab claims killing 27 soldiers in southern Somalia

Al-Shabab claims killing 27 soldiers in southern Somalia Full Article

 

AMISOM says working closely with Somali forces to degrade al-Shabab

AMISOM says working closely with Somali forces to degrade al-Shabab Full Article

 

Al-Shabab Militant Group Getting Lucky, Not Stronger in Somalia

Al-Shabab Militant Group Getting Lucky, Not Stronger in Somalia Full Article

 

Topnews:- Madaxii Waaxda Gaadiidka Alshabab Gobalada Baay & Bakool oo Ka Mid Noqday Xildhibaanada Cusub

Xildhibaan Idiris Cabdi Dhaqtar oo ka mid ah Xildhibaanada lagu soo doortay Magaalada Baydhabo ee Xarunta KMG u ah Maamulka Koonfur Galbeed ayaa' dadka wax ka yaqaanno ku tilmaameen in uu yahay Shaqsi u shaqeeya Kooxda al Shabaab asagoo xilal kala duwan kasoo qabtay kooxdaasi. Full Article

 

As ISIS Struggles for Influence in Somalia, al-Shabab Remains the Main Threat

The so-called Islamic State received some modest good news recently from Somalia, in what has otherwise been a dismal stretch of losses for the jihadi group. In October Full Article

 

SAWIRRO + DHAGEYSI: Ciidanka Galmudug oo xasuuqay shababakii ugu badnaa Soona bandhigay Maxaabiis ay qabteen

Sarkaal ku Sugan Goobihii Dagaalka Ayaa ka dhaceen Shalay ayaa ka Waramay Halka ay ku Suganyihiin iyo Tirada Shabaabka ay ka Dileen iyo Dhimasha Galmudug Dhankooda jirta. Full Article

 

Somalia Dahabshiil:Cash-switch firm sued for 'aiding Al-Shabab terrorists' -Walkileaks.com

The New York son of Somali singer and politician Saado Ali Warsame is suing the US arm of a cash-switch enterprise, claiming it helped fund the assassination of his mom. Full Article

 

US Money-Transferring Firm Sued for Funding Assassinations by Al-Shabab

The son of a Somali singer and political activist who was slain by Al-Shabab insurgents is suing a money-transferring firm with a subsidiary headquarters in Minnesota for allegedly putting a multi-million dollar bounty on his mother's head. Full Article

 


Leave a comment

  Tip

  Tip

  Tip

  Tip

  Tip


Somalia accuses Ethiopia of weapons smuggling for fourth time

Somalia's government on Sunday accused Ethiopia of smuggling arms into the country for the fourth time this year, further alleging its involvement in supporting regional officials, subject to court warrants and actively pursued, in efforts to destabilize the nation.

Villa Somalia and Jubaland now teeter on the edge of full-blown war

Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe, previously allies in the nation's political landscape, now find themselves on the brink of war after a divisive National Consultative Council meeting revealed profound rifts, prompting both sides to mobilize for a possible showdown.

The killer,the kidnapper of Somalia, entered in the US as a migrant

In July 2009, Mahad Ibrahim Hamarow kidnapped French officers Denis Allex and another officer who escaped from the Sahafi Hotel in Mogadishu and then joined Al Shabaab. In the same year, he fled to Kenya, this was confirmed by Hizbul Islam Spokesman Mr Aydarus. - In 2010, Mahad Hamarow went to South Africa for migration, that's how we found out in the investigation, we were also told by Mohamed Isse and his brother Somaney who lives in Johannesburg South Africa.

Somalia:War to Defeat Al Shabab Militarily

President HSM's Proclamation to Defeat Al-Shabab by Force in Somalia To overcome the complex problems of civil war, state fragility, and underdevelopment, the Somali people supported risky political changes for a government that promotes freedom, justice, peace, and prosperity in Somalia. For example, the Islamic movements enjoyed popular support to end the brutal reigns of warlords and the military occupation of Ethiopia and establish new government.

Somalia:$17 million external support has not been channeled through the country's single treasury account

Waagacusub.net -Auditor General Mohamed Ali alias Afgoi has exposed missing millions of dollars from key departments within the Federal Government of Somalia [FGS], in what could raise questions about government expenditures. In his report, Afgoi said 25 entities and three embassies have been audited. Unsupported expenditure amounts to $9M; contracts worth $31M not registered with auditor general's office, the existence of unauthorized bank accounts outside the Treasury Single Account.

Somalia army and Jubaland forces edge closer to conflict

Waagacusub.net- Somalia's army and Jubaland forces are teetering on the edge of conflict, as the military buildup intensifies daily and tensions show no signs of de-escalating, Caasimada Online news website reported on Monday. Full Article

 

Somalia accuses Ethiopia of weapons smuggling for fourth time

Somalia's government on Sunday accused Ethiopia of smuggling arms into the country for the fourth time this year, further alleging its involvement in supporting regional officials, subject to court warrants and actively pursued, in efforts to destabilize the nation. Full Article

 

Villa Somalia and Jubaland now teeter on the edge of full-blown war

Somalia's President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Jubaland leader Ahmed Madobe, previously allies in the nation's political landscape, now find themselves on the brink of war after a divisive National Consultative Council meeting revealed profound rifts, prompting both sides to mobilize for a possible showdown. Full Article

 

The killer,the kidnapper of Somalia, entered in the US as a migrant

In July 2009, Mahad Ibrahim Hamarow kidnapped French officers Denis Allex and another officer who escaped from the Sahafi Hotel in Mogadishu and then joined Al Shabaab. In the same year, he fled to Kenya, this was confirmed by Hizbul Islam Spokesman Mr Aydarus. - In 2010, Mahad Hamarow went to South Africa for migration, that's how we found out in the investigation, we were also told by Mohamed Isse and his brother Somaney who lives in Johannesburg South Africa. Full Article

 

President Mahad Salaad: the Only Guarantor for Galmudug's Security and Prosperity

Galmudug State is not just the geographic heart of Somalia but the quintessential soul of the Somali nation. Within Galmudug, all the major Somali clan lineages- the Hawiye, Dir, Darood and Madhibaan are represented. No other Somali region or state is home to such diverse and influential clans with such extensive historical significance in Somalia as found in the Galmudug territory. Economically, Galmudug in 2024 is set to be the first location for the offshore oil and gas that the Somali Federal Government in partnership with the Houston-based American company, Coastline Exploration have commenced work on off the Hobyo coast since 2021. Full Article

 

Hormuud telecom and Al-Shabaab's Strategy of Destroying Mobile Communication Masts

Hormuud's Assault on African Peacekeepers Figure 14: African Peace Keepers Hormuud launched a scorching public campaign against the Kenyan military forces in AMISOM in late August 2019. Full Article

 

Former Intel official stripped from NISA membership

Former Intel official stripped from NISA membership Full Article

 

PM KHEYRE USELESS AND COSTY OVERSEAS TRIPS.

PM KHEYRE USELESS AND COSTY OVERSEAS TRIPS. Full Article

 

Abiy says 'New Year' will be celebrated in Eritrea, Ethiopian Airlines to resume flights

Abiy says 'New Year' will be celebrated in Eritrea, Ethiopian Airlines to resume flights Full Article

 

Massive rise in Islamist militant attacks in Africa

Massive rise in Islamist militant attacks in Africa Full Article