(14-09-23) MOGADISHU — Somali Defence Minister Abdikadir Mohamed Nur on Thursday called for the displaced residents of Eel La Halay and Eel Garas in the Galgaduud region to return to their homes, promising robust support from the National Army and the government in the fight against the militant group al-Shabaab.
The Ministry of Defence announced the appeal through a social media statement. “Defence Minister Abdikadir Mohamed Nur urges displaced residents of Galguduud’s Eel-La-Halay & El Garas to safely return home. Our National Army & government are committed to supporting and protecting those who’ve faced hardships due to al-Shabaab,” the statement read.
Minister Nur has been on the frontlines; social media photos over the last two months show the minister carrying his gun and encouraging the army. Analysts believe his presence on the frontlines, along with President Hassan Sheikh—who since early August moved his office to Dhusamareb and paid visits to the recently liberated areas—rallies support for the offensive against al-Shabaab.
This governmental pledge aims to allay fears among the local population who have been under the shadow of violence and intimidation from al-Shabaab forces. Somali government forces have liberated large areas from al-Shabaab in Gallmudug and Hirshabelle following an offensive by the Somali National Army and international allies.
Halqabsi News
