Saturday, June 28, 2025 — HAN
Beledweyne, Somalia — Injured members of the ma’awisley militia in Somalia’s Hiiraan region have voiced serious concerns over their safety and welfare, alleging neglect and poor treatment in hospital following recent changes in management.
The fighters, who have played a key role in countering extremist groups in central Somalia, say the removal of trusted staff — including a department head who shared clan ties with many of the patients — has left them feeling abandoned and at risk.
“We no longer feel safe. The people we trusted to care for us have been removed without any explanation,” one wounded fighter told local media, describing growing anxiety among patients.
The militia members are appealing to authorities for urgent intervention, warning that the situation could endanger their lives.
They fear they are being denied the care they need after sacrificing for the security of their communities.
“All we are asking for is basic medical care, dignity, and protection,” said another injured fighter. “We risked our lives for the safety of others, and now we feel forgotten.”
The situation has alarmed civil society groups, who caution that mistreatment of frontline fighters could damage morale and erode public confidence in government efforts to stabilize the region.
