Monday, July 7, 2025
Buloburte— (Horn Africa News) — Somali Federal Government forces, supported by local Ma’awisley fighters from the Hawaadle clan, have successfully retaken control of Moqokori, a strategically vital town in the central Hiiraan region, after it was briefly seized by Al-Shabaab militants early Monday.
The attack began with a series of coordinated explosions launched by the militant group before dawn, followed by a rapid assault that allowed them to occupy the town by midday. According to military sources and local witnesses, intense firefights erupted between the extremists and the Somali National Army (SNA), supported by Ma’awisley community fighters. Both sides reportedly suffered significant casualties.
Residents described the scene as one of the fiercest battles in recent memory, with civilians fleeing in fear as gunfire and explosions echoed throughout the town. However, by late afternoon, government forces mounted a counteroffensive that ultimately forced the militants to retreat.
Political Reactions: Calls for Unity and Focus
In the aftermath of the battle, former Somali Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble issued a strong statement urging the Federal Government to prioritize the fight against terrorism over internal political disputes.
“I call on the leaders of the Federal Government to come up with a concrete strategy to turn around the deteriorating security situation,” Roble said. “The fight against extremism should be the government’s top priority — not political distractions that can be solved through dialogue.”
Roble also praised the valor of the Somali National Army and the Ma’awisley fighters, commending their joint resistance in defense of Moqokori.
“I commend the courage shown by our national forces and the Macaawiisley fighters of Hiiraan who fiercely resisted Al-Shabaab’s attempt to overrun the town,” he added.
Puntland President Deni Criticizes Federal Response
Puntland’s President, Said Abdullahi Deni, also commented on the events, taking a more critical tone toward the central government. He accused Mogadishu of mismanaging national security by prioritizing political disputes with federal member states over the threat posed by Al-Shabaab.
“It’s deeply unfortunate that while Al-Shabaab was capturing Moqokori, the federal government was preoccupied with deploying troops to Sanaag,” Deni stated. “We still remember the tragedy at Ras Kamboni, and how our national forces surrendered and sought asylum in a neighboring country. This negligence is unacceptable.”
His comments reflect a growing sense of frustration among regional administrations over what they perceive as the federal government’s lack of strategic focus and coordination in the counterinsurgency campaign.
Strategic Importance of Moqokori
Moqokori is situated along critical supply and communication lines in the Hiiraan region and has frequently been the target of Al-Shabaab offensives. Its location gives it both logistical and symbolic significance in the broader war against the insurgency.
While today’s successful counteroffensive marks a tactical victory, analysts caution that long-term gains require sustained military operations, improved coordination between the federal and regional forces, and broader political unity.
Conclusion
The brief but intense battle for Moqokori has once again highlighted both the persistent threat posed by Al-Shabaab and the importance of community mobilization in the fight against extremism. As Somali leaders call for a shift in national priorities and improved security strategy, many citizens are hoping this moment will be a turning point in the broader effort to reclaim and stabilize territories under militant control.
