(15-03-23) Mogadishu – NISA Security Forces unit consisting of approximately 120 soldiers stationed in Sarandi Rehabilitation Center in Mogadishu has staged a protest over unpaid salaries and denied rights. The soldiers claim they have not received their pay for over three months and are victims of corruption and manipulation within the system.
The protesting soldiers spoke to the media, expressing their frustration and dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. They pointed out that their salaries are missing due to corruption within the government and military ranks, which has led to the misappropriation of funds intended for their compensation.
The Sarandi unit is responsible for protecting and overseeing the Sarandi Rehabilitation Center since its establishment in 2015. The center’s primary goal is to rehabilitate fighters who have defected from the extremist group al-Shabaab. The security forces work to shield these individuals from society until they reach a level where they can safely reintegrate and behave responsibly.
As the soldiers continue to protect those who once held extremist beliefs, their own financial security has been put at risk. The unpaid wages and missing rights have not only affected their morale but also hindered their ability to effectively protect and rehabilitate the former al-Shabaab members.
The Somali government has yet to issue a statement or respond to the soldiers’ claims. With the ongoing fight against extremist groups like al-Shabaab, the stability and efficacy of the Somali Security Forces are crucial in maintaining national security. This situation highlights the need for increased transparency, accountability, and reform within the Somali government and military structures to ensure the protection and fair treatment of its security forces.
