(24-06-23) MOGADISHU — Minister of Defense of Somalia Abdulqadir Mohamed Nur, orchestrated an official handover of military positions on Saturday in the Ministery of Defence premises. The newly appointed Chief of Defence Forces, General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhiyeddin, and the Land Forces Commander, General Ahmed Aden Ali, officially assumed their roles, marking a new chapter for the Somali military.
The ceremony took place in the capital Mogadishu, with full military honours on display as a mark of respect and acknowledgement for the incoming and outgoing generals. The former Land Forces commander, General Mohamed Tahlil Bihi, formally relinquished his position to General Ahmed Aden Ali in an atmosphere teeming with anticipation for the future of the nation’s defence forces.
In their farewell speeches, both Generals Bihi and Odawaa affirmed their commitment to the country, pledging their cooperation and support to the incoming commanders. They underscored their unwavering dedication to Somalia and the military, reinforcing the sense of solidarity within the ranks.
Accepting the new role, General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhiyedin commended the efforts of his predecessors. “The work they have carried out,” he said, “has paved the way to a good place. Their legacy will further contribute to the progress of our nation.” General Muhiyedin, with an already commendable military record, has been appointed amidst growing hopes for a reinforced and modernised Somali National Army.
The Somali Defence Ministry has not disclosed the future roles of Generals Odawaa and Bihi, but they are expected to continue serving in advisory or strategic roles within the military. The new leadership, taking the helm at such a critical juncture, pledges to build on the foundation laid by the outgoing commanders.
