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The newly appointed governor of Hiiraan region, Mohamed Hussein Mohamed, officially took office on Friday, promising to restore peace and stability in Beledweyne, the regional capital that has recently seen a surge in violence and insecurity.
During a handover ceremony attended by officials, elders, and community members, Governor Mohamed — widely known as Mohamed Hussein Arab — received the leadership mantle from outgoing governor Muse Salad Wehliye. In his speech, he said his top priority would be ending the wave of crime, armed robberies, and killings that have left residents living in fear.
“Starting tonight, we will no longer allow thieves to harass poor mothers or terrorize residents in Beledweyne,” the governor declared firmly. “We will confront those threatening the city’s peace with an iron fist.” His words were met with applause from attendees who have grown frustrated by the insecurity that has plagued the city in recent months.
Beledweyne, a major city in central Somalia and a key hub for trade and travel, has been facing an alarming rise in violent incidents, including assassinations, armed robberies, and attacks by unidentified gunmen. Many residents have blamed both local authorities and security forces for failing to protect civilians. The situation has disrupted businesses and left families fearful to move freely after dark.
Governor Mohamed acknowledged the magnitude of the challenges ahead but emphasized that restoring public confidence in government institutions would require teamwork and transparency. He appealed to officials from the previous administration to cooperate with his new team, noting that development and peace could only be achieved if all stakeholders worked together.
He also reached out to clan elders, youth groups, and women’s organizations, urging them to play an active role in promoting reconciliation and supporting law enforcement efforts. “This is not the responsibility of the government alone,” he said. “Every resident has a role to play in rebuilding trust and ensuring that Beledweyne becomes a safe city again.”
The governor said his administration would prioritize reforms in the local security sector, including improving coordination between police, the army, and community patrols. He also promised to strengthen intelligence gathering and take firm action against those found collaborating with criminal groups.
Local observers say the new governor faces an uphill battle. In addition to insecurity, Beledweyne has been dealing with other serious issues such as floods, poverty, and weak infrastructure, which have further strained the lives of residents. Repeated clashes in surrounding areas have also displaced hundreds of families into the city, increasing pressure on limited resources and services.
Despite these difficulties, Governor Mohamed expressed optimism about the future of Hiiraan, saying he believes that peace and progress are within reach if unity and accountability are prioritized. “We are inheriting a city with challenges, but also one with great potential,” he said. “If we stand together, we can turn Beledweyne into a model for stability and growth.”
The event ended with prayers for peace and a symbolic gesture of unity between the outgoing and incoming administrations. Residents watching the ceremony expressed cautious hope that the new leadership would bring meaningful change after years of insecurity and neglect.