By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU – Somalia’s Federal Parliament has sharply criticized HirShabelle State President Ali Abdullahi Hussein (Ali Gudlaawe), accusing him of actions they say threaten national security. The criticism comes amid an escalating political dispute over what lawmakers describe as a “fake military rank” scandal that has taken on new urgency.
During an emergency session on Tuesday, several MPs argued that Gudlaawe’s recent decisions—particularly the deployment and promotion of security personnel within HirShabelle—amount to an overreach of authority and risk undermining coordination between federal and regional security institutions.
According to the lawmakers, Gudlaawe approved or endorsed a senior military rank for an individual who is not officially recognized by the Somali National Army (SNA) or the Ministry of Defense. They further allege that the disputed promotion was used to influence political dynamics in parts of Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan, areas already facing security pressure from ongoing operations against Al-Shabaab.
One MP described the situation as “deeply alarming,” saying it reflects “a pattern of parallel security structures that weakens national institutions and endangers counterterrorism efforts.”
The accusations have heightened tensions between the Federal Government and the HirShabelle administration. Gudlaawe has not issued a public response, but his allies deny the allegations, calling them politically motivated attempts to weaken his leadership at a time of serious regional insecurity.
Political analysts say the controversy highlights long-standing friction between Mogadishu and federal member states over security control, authority, and political influence. The dispute is expected to intensify as Somalia moves into key political processes and continues its military campaign against Al-Shabaab militants.
The Ministry of Defense has not yet commented on the alleged fake rank or the broader parliamentary claims.
