(18-07-23) MOGADISHU – Addressing the escalating political discord within the Hirshabelle administration, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia made a swift visit to Jowhar on Tuesday. The visit aimed at mediating the feud between the former governor of the Hiiraan region, Ali Jeyte, and the President of Hirshabelle, Ali Guudlawe.
The conflict ignited when Ali Jeyte defied orders to step down after his dismissal by the regional President last month. His refusal to cede power to his appointed successor, Governor Abdullahi Ahmed Maalin Sufurow, has stoked political tensions, causing ripples of concern within the administration.
In light of this, the meeting between President Mohamud and Hirshabelle’s leader, Ali Guudlawe, was organised at Mohamed Dheere Airport, strategically located between the Jowhar and Mahaday districts, 18 kilometres from Jowhar city. This decision was prompted by the hazardous road conditions, persistent security threats, and the often impassable routes due to seasonal flooding that hinder travel to the Hirshabelle presidency in Jowhar.
Further cementing his commitment to security, President Mohamud convened with the Somali National Army and African Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) forces stationed at the airport. This interaction underscored the administration’s dedication to its troops on the front lines against Al-Shabaab. It also hinted at the imminent launch of the second phase of the government’s campaign against this extremist group, likely involving the collaboration of regional allies.
After completing the discussions and troop interactions, the President promptly returned to Mogadishu on his private plane.
