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Former Somali President Shariif Sheikh Ahmed blasts FGS over military failures and corruption
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    Saturday July 27, 2024

    Mogadishu (HOL) — Former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has accused the Federal Government of Somalia of failing in its fight against al-Shabab due to mismanagement and corruption.

    Speaking at a press conference in Mogadishu on Saturday, Sharif asserted that no single battalion within the Somali military is currently prepared to combat the militant group despite the government announcing new military operations.

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    "If the strategy to fight Shabaab were correct, why have the troops been defeated?" Sharif questioned. "There isn't a single battalion in the military today that is ready to fight. The military's management is flawed, and we will continue to speak out. We are also opposed to Shabaab."

    Sharif also highlighted what he described as unprecedented levels of corruption and embezzlement of public funds, rendering government offices ineffective. He further accused government leaders of promoting clan-based practices and hiring incompetent staff based on clan affiliations.

    "In recent days, numerous weapons have entered the country from various places, exacerbating existing challenges for the government and threatening peace and stability. Despite efforts to lift sanctions, it is evident that the government has not fully met its responsibilities. These weapons have fallen into the hands of civilians, with some government involvement and troops escorting the weapons. The weapons pose a greater threat than their intended purpose, as they serve special interests that are detrimental to the country," Sharif stated.

    The former president's remarks have sparked widespread discussion among the Somali populace. The Federal Government of Somalia has yet to respond to these allegations.

    On July 15, twelve people were killed, including two soldiers, during a clash over two truckloads of weapons in Shiilamaow, near Abudwak, close to the Ethiopian border. The weapons, which included machine guns and assault rifles, were intercepted by local militias after being seized by government forces from "illegal weapons traders."

    The incident has strained relations between Somalia and Ethiopia, with the latter denying any involvement in smuggling weapons into Somalia. Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the accusations as "unwarranted and irresponsible," emphasizing its commitment to peace and stability in the region.

     





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