Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Mogadishu — (Horn Africa News)— Mohamed Abdi Waare, the former President of Hirshabelle State and current Deputy Secretary-General of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), has sharply criticized Somali federal and regional leaders for what he described as a failure to sustain the national campaign against the militant group Al-Shabaab.
In a strongly worded statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Waare expressed deep frustration over what he sees as a major retreat from the fight against terrorism in Somalia. He accused both the federal government and some federal member states of turning their attention away from the war on Al-Shabaab, allowing the group to regroup and regain strength.
“Three years ago, I said we have defeated Al-Shabaab militarily. Today, the answer is clear,” Waare wrote, referencing what he now views as a missed opportunity and a turning point in the conflict.
Moqokori: The Last Stronghold of Resistance
Waare singled out the town of Moqokori in the Hiiraan region as one of the few areas where the anti-Al-Shabaab military offensive is still ongoing. He described Moqokori as a crucial front in the war and warned that Al-Shabaab fighters are pouring into the area from far-off regions, including Jubbaland and South West State, a sign of how strategically important the group views this battleground.
“It appears that in the rest of the country, there is no serious war taking place against Al-Shabaab,” Waare stated. “Most people seem to have turned a blind eye to the suffering of the people in Hiiraan.”
A Shift in National Priorities?
Waare criticized the Somali government and its international partners for deprioritizing the war on terror. He argued that internal political conflicts and distractions have taken precedence over the pressing need to defeat Al-Shabaab.
“It is clear that the war against Al-Shabaab is no longer the top priority for the government or even for some of our international security partners,” he said.
The former Hirshabelle leader also called for an immediate end to what he termed “meaningless political distractions,” which he believes are undermining national security and emboldening extremist forces.
“I still believe Al-Shabaab can be defeated,” Waare affirmed. “But that can only happen if we prevent the creation of new political divisions and stop inflating side issues.”
Call for National Unity and Strategy
Waare concluded his message with a call for unity and a comprehensive national strategy. He urged the federal government, regional states, and the Somali people to come together under a single plan and shared vision to defeat Al-Shabaab once and for all.
“What we need now is a unified national approach — a clear and coordinated plan that brings together all levels of government and society to confront this threat,” he said.
His comments come at a critical time, as Somalia prepares for key political transitions and continues to face a resilient insurgency that threatens hard-won gains in security and governance
