Thursday December 23, 2021
MOGADISHU (HOL) - Differences between Prime Minister Mohamed Roble and President Mohamed Abdullahi resurfaced Wednesday following allegations by the Navy Chief Abdihamid Dirir that the PM had grabbed part of military land in Mogadishu.
Sources told HOL that the PM had attempted to sack Admiral Dirir following the accusations but overruled by the President.
Farmaajo, sources said stood ground that the PM did not have powers to remove a military man out of office. Dirir claimed on Tuesday that some powerful individuals including the PM had grabbed land belonging to the Navy around Lido beach in Mogadishu.
Subsequently, Defence Minister Hassan Haji called on Somali National Army chief Gen. Odowaa Rage to investigate the matter and take action.
However, he issued another statement Wednesday evening noting he had misquoted and that he did not order an investigation but instead Gen. Odowaa should take action against Dirir.
Following this development, tension build up in Mogadishu with roads near Villa Somalia and other government controlled areas sealed off and forces deployed.
Amid the brewing row, PM Roble called for a cabinet meeting today. The meeting was ongoing at the time of publishing this story.
President Farmaajo held a meeting with senior security chiefs including Gen. Odowaa in Mogadishu Wednesday night.
A statement indicated that the meeting focused on security in light of recent increased attacks by Alshabaab in the city and other parts of the country.