(22-04-23) MOGADISHU – The Special Envoy of the President of Somalia in charge of stabilization and civilian affairs in areas liberated from Al-Shabaab, Mohamed Abdi Waare, posted on Twitter, urging the President of Hirshabelle not to remove the Governor of Hiran, Ali Jeyte. Waare claims that Al-Shabaab is paying millions of dollars for Jeyte’s removal, but did not clarify who is providing the funds to the organization.
Former Hirshabelle President Waare stated in his writing that Al-Shabaab’s financial backing is a troubling sign of external influence. Political commentators have interpreted the allegations as implicating Hirshabelle President Ali Gudlawe Hussein in a potential agreement to accept money from Al-Shabaab in exchange for replacing Jeyte.
Ali Jeyte has been a prominent figure in the fight against Al-Shabaab in the Hiran region, supporting local forces and the Maawisley militia in liberating the area from the extremist group’s control. His potential removal from office has raised concerns among experts.
Political analyst Dr Farah Ashkir stated, “Ali Jeyte’s removal could significantly undermine the progress made in the Hiran region against Al-Shabaab. If President Ali Gudlawe Hussein is indeed accepting funds from the extremist group, it raises serious questions about the integrity of Hirshabelle’s leadership.”
Somali security expert Ahmed Hussein expressed his concerns, saying, “Governor Ali Jeyte has been a symbol of resilience and unity in the fight against Al-Shabaab. His removal may create a power vacuum in the region, which could be exploited by extremist elements.”
During his visit to Baledweyne last year, President Guudlawe made a commitment to the people of Hiran, pledging to return the Hirshabelle capital city to Baledweyne. However, despite the assurances given, there has been no progress or tangible outcome from the promises he made.
There is also a conflict that has since arisen between Governor Ali Jeyte and President Guudlawe over the collection and management of taxes in the Hiiraan and Beledweyne regions. This disagreement has fueled tensions between the two leaders, further complicating the political landscape in the area and raising concerns about the stability and governance of the region.
While Waare’s allegations have not been independently verified, they have sparked intense debate among the Somali public. Many are closely monitoring developments to determine whether Hirshabelle’s leadership is truly compromised, and what impact this might have on the ongoing battle against Al-Shabaab.
