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A prominent Somali lawmaker rejects rebel label for Macawisley forces in Hiiraan region, forcefully dismissing claims that local community defense units are forming an anti-government insurgent movement amid growing political friction across central Somalia. Addressing media outlets and public forums following the peaceful takeover of administrative facilities in Beledweyne, Member of Parliament Abdimalik Abdalla defended the legitimacy of the local militia, emphasizing that these community forces have historically served as key allies alongside federal troops during counter-terrorism operations. The lawmaker urged political opponents to halt malicious rumors, asserting that the local fighters are standing up for constitutional rights rather than acting as hostile elements against national sovereignty.
The parliamentary defense follows heightened political and security tensions surrounding the recent formation of a new Hirshabelle state administration in Jowhar. Local leaders and Hawadle community representatives in Hiiraan have voiced strong opposition to the electoral process, contending that the regional administration was finalized without inclusive consensus or fair power-sharing agreements. As armed Macawisley contingents joined existing forces stationed inside the strategic Lama-Galay administrative compound, federal and regional officials expressed concern over potential administrative instability and disruption to regional governance.
Lawmaker Abdimalik Abdalla also warned against attempts by political actors to extend government mandates without consensus, cautioning that unconstitutional extensions risk inciting community divisions and undermining public trust. He noted that when Macawisley fighters previously took up arms against extremist groups, they were widely recognized as patriotic defense partners rather than unlawful rebels. Defense analysts observe that mislabeling community defense forces risks alienating crucial local partners who remain vital for holding rural territory and safeguarding urban centers across central Somalia.
Civil society organizations, traditional elders, and parliamentary members have urged all federal and regional stakeholders to resolve the dispute through open diplomatic negotiations rather than military posturing. Ensuring inclusive dialogue remains essential for preventing further political fragmentation in Hiiraan while maintaining focus on nationwide security objectives. As a Somali lawmaker rejects rebel label for Macawisley forces in Hiiraan region, federal leaders in Mogadishu face mounting pressure to broker a peaceful political settlement that balances regional administrative governance with community representation.