(05-09-23) MAHAAS — President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of Somalia stood among the troops of the national army in Mahaas, Hiiraan region, on Tuesday, delivering a rousing speech in which he asserted that the armed extremist group Al-Shabaab will not defeat them.
The president revealed that he receives daily messages aimed at instilling fear but remains steadfast, convinced that the extremist group poses no existential threat to the nation. “Democracy will not be silenced by cowards. We are all targets—whether it’s a car bomb on your route, a poisoning attempt, or an airborne attack on the plane you’re on. I am subject to these threats every day,” President Hassan Sheikh stated.
His confidence stems from years of military development, contrasting today’s preparedness to when they were less equipped to counter the extremist group. “Young people, you are on the path of righteousness. Al-Shabaab cannot defeat you,” he told the troops.
In a significant development, President Hassan Sheikh announced the arrest of military officers suspected of leaking battle plans. While not disclosing the number of arrested officers, he assured that they would face the full extent of the law. “Let’s not deceive ourselves; no one who exposes our positions to the enemy will be spared,” the president warned.
President Hassan Sheikh was explicit that there would be no collective responsibility and that each individual would be held accountable for their actions. “There are no bad soldiers, only bad officers. If we win this battle, we will achieve a prosperity we have not seen before,” he said.
Concluding his speech, President Hassan Sheikh assured the troops that he would be visiting other battlefronts in the coming days. The president vowed not to withdraw and said he would not be confined to his office until Al-Shabaab is defeated.
Minutes after President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud gave the speech to SNA forces in Mahaas, a VBIED exploded as local forces successfully intercepted it outside the district. There were no casualties except for the suicide bomber.
The speech comes amid ongoing conflict with Al-Shabaab, casting a significant spotlight on the government’s resolve to continue the fight. Analysts see the president’s appearance among the troops and subsequent declarations as not only a morale boost but also a strong message to those who may undermine the national security efforts.
Halqabsi News
