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In a pivotal move reflecting Somalia’s complex political and security landscape, the federal cabinet dismissed Army Chief Ibrahim Sheikh Muhyadin Addow on Saturday, appointing Maj. Gen. Odowaa Yusuf Rageh in his place. The decision was made during an emergency session in Mogadishu and highlights the government’s intensified commitment to defense strategies, especially against the insurgent group al-Shabaab.
Maj. Gen. Rageh previously served as Somalia’s army chief from 2020 to 2023, overseeing high-stakes military operations against al-Shabaab, a faction that has waged violent campaigns since 2007, targeting both civilian and government institutions. The Prime Minister’s office emphasized that Rageh’s return aims to “speed up the defense of the country and eliminate the Khawarij groups,” using a term the Somali government employs to describe al-Shabaab militants.
Renewed Focus on Al-Shabaab Threat
The reappointment of Maj. Gen. Rageh is seen as a strategic pivot in Somalia’s broader security plan, particularly President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s “all-out war” against al-Shabaab. Under Rageh’s previous leadership, the military made significant strides in weakening al-Shabaab’s influence in certain regions, even as the group continues to maintain strongholds in rural areas and sporadically strikes urban centers.
“Maj. Gen. Rageh’s proven track record and familiarity with Somalia’s security complexities make him an ideal candidate to restore momentum to our military objectives,” said a government spokesperson. “We are committed to eradicating al-Shabaab’s presence to secure a peaceful and united Somalia, especially as we approach a new era of direct elections.”
Rising Political Tensions Over 2025 Election Timeline
The leadership shift also comes at a time when political tensions between Somalia’s federal government and regional states are intensifying. This week, Jubaland severed ties with the federal administration, following a similar decision by Puntland in August. Both regional states cited frustrations with the government’s timeline for the upcoming 2025 direct elections, the country’s first in more than five decades.
These tensions reflect deeper challenges within Somalia’s federal structure, as regional states seek greater autonomy while federal authorities push for centralized electoral policies. The rift is further complicated by former Somali presidents who have voiced opposition to the election plan, calling for increased transparency and cooperation among regional entities to ensure a fair process.
Despite opposition, the Somali presidency has stood by its decision, planning for parliamentary and state presidential elections in 2025. President Mohamud’s administration believes that holding these elections as scheduled is essential to fostering democratic governance and strengthening public trust in Somali institutions.
Strategic Importance of Military Stability Ahead of Elections
Given the political divides and al-Shabaab’s persistent attacks, ensuring a stable security environment has become a primary concern for Somali leadership. Experts view Maj. Gen. Rageh’s reappointment as a tactical move to enhance military stability ahead of the 2025 elections. His experience in counter-insurgency and familiarity with al-Shabaab’s tactics are expected to reinforce Somalia’s national defense framework.
During Rageh’s previous tenure, he successfully led operations in partnership with the African Union and other international allies, focusing on rooting out al-Shabaab’s influence in key regions. Under his leadership, Somali forces collaborated closely with the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which has been crucial in stabilizing parts of the country.
As the elections approach, the federal government has increased security initiatives across urban and rural areas, aiming to counteract extremist activities and prevent disruptions to the political process. This stability is especially critical in regions where al-Shabaab has historically sought to undermine government efforts.
Somalia’s Federal Government Calls for Unity in Counter-Terrorism Efforts
In the wake of Rageh’s appointment, the government is urging unity among Somali citizens and regional leaders, emphasizing that collaboration across political lines is essential to defeating al-Shabaab. The Somali government has also called on regional states to support its counter-terrorism initiatives and to prioritize national security over political disputes.
Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) has also ramped up efforts to dismantle al-Shabaab’s networks, with coordinated raids targeting cells that have infiltrated urban areas. NISA’s recent actions, combined with Maj. Gen. Rageh’s military strategies, reflect a comprehensive approach aimed at addressing Somalia’s security challenges from multiple fronts.
Direct Elections and Somalia’s Path Forward
The decision to proceed with the 2025 direct elections remains a landmark step for Somalia, marking the first time in 56 years that citizens will vote directly for parliamentary and state leaders. However, the journey to democratic elections is fraught with obstacles, from inter-regional disputes to security threats posed by militant groups. The government’s leadership reshuffle is part of a broader effort to establish a secure environment conducive to fair elections, aiming to rebuild public trust and lay the foundation for long-term stability.
As Somalia moves toward this pivotal moment in its history, the cabinet’s decision signals a renewed commitment to addressing security and political concerns head-on. With Maj. Gen. Rageh’s leadership, the government hopes to accelerate the country’s fight against extremism and unify Somali society under a shared vision of peace and progress.