MOGADISHU — A prominent Somali traditional leader has issued an apology and called for calm following a social media dispute involving remarks that sparked tensions between clan elders and triggered widespread debate online.
Suldaan Igale Hooleey, speaking to local media in Mogadishu, addressed comments that had circulated widely on social media and were linked to what he described as “offensive remarks” allegedly made by another elder from the Mudulood clan group. The remarks were reportedly directed at Ugaas Yusuf Ugaas Hassan Ugaas Khalif of the Hawadle community.
The statements quickly spread across Somali social media platforms, prompting strong public reactions and renewed discussion about clan sensitivity, the responsibility of public speech, and the role of elders in preventing social division.
“The Hawadle are a large and honorable community, and they have historically contributed to Somali statehood and national political life,” Suldaan Hooleey said during his press briefing in Mogadishu. He referenced historical figures from the community, including Sheikh Ali Jimale, who he noted participated in Somalia’s early post-independence political processes around 1960.
The Sultan stressed that the disputed remarks had emerged in a specific context of disagreement and should not be used to fuel political mobilization or inflame tensions between communities.
He urged the public, particularly young social media users, to exercise caution when sharing unverified or emotionally charged statements.
“Every word circulated can have social and political consequences if misinterpreted,” he warned, adding that misinformation and misinterpretation often contribute to unnecessary hostility and division.
Suldaan Hooleey also called on traditional elders, religious scholars, and civil society actors to play a more active role in de-escalating tensions and promoting reconciliation, saying they remain key pillars in maintaining social cohesion.
The controversy comes amid growing sensitivity in online discourse in Somalia, where clan-related commentary frequently spreads rapidly and can escalate into broader political and social debates.
Separately, Nabadoon Abdijamal Muhumed Ali from the Hawadle community emphasized the importance of interpreting the remarks in their proper context, saying: “It is expected that the statement should be understood in its intended meaning.”
So far, there has been no official response from the individual accused of making the original remarks directed at Ugaas Yusuf Ugaas Hassan Ugaas Khalif. However, elders and community leaders are reportedly engaged in informal mediation efforts aimed at clarifying the situation and reducing tensions.
The incident highlights the increasing influence of social media in shaping public discourse in Somalia, where traditional authorities continue to call for restraint to prevent local disputes from escalating online.
