Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, attending the 14th Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Ordinary Summit, highlighted his government’s security and political successes against the militant insurgency group Al-Shabaab.
Mohamud detailed the comprehensive counterterrorism measures against Al-Shabaab, resulting in the liberation of significant territories within the Shabelle, Hiraan, Galgaduud, and Mudug regions. The offensive marked a turning point, concluding 15 years of extremist oppression in these districts.
However, a report by Caleb Weiss, editor of FDD’s Long War Journal and senior analyst at the Bridgeway Foundation, presents a different perspective, arguing that the government’s counter-offensive against Shabaab has hit a roadblock, with the next phase being delayed. Weiss suggests Shabaab is exploiting this pause in offensive operations to launch violent attacks, including a hotel siege in Mogadishu and targeted assassinations. The report underscores the ongoing challenges facing the anti-Shabaab campaign and the need for sustained pressure on the group.
Following the liberation, these areas have seen increased development projects focused on public service enhancement. Additionally, security in these regions has been robustly reinforced to prevent any potential extremist resurgence.
President Mohamud shared his administration’s commitment to bolstering its governance system with his fellow IGAD leaders, which has been demonstrated by the numerous National Consultative Council meetings held since his administration returned to Villa Somalia.
In a council meeting held from May 24-27, significant resolutions were made, including plans for direct democratic elections. Mohamud told IGAD leaders that governmental councils are working diligently towards implementing these agreements.
President Mohamud called on his IGAD counterparts to contribute more actively to peace-building efforts in Sudan and other conflict-ridden regions, displaying regional solidarity.
The IGAD summit, which began on Monday in Djibouti, will spotlight regional peace, security, and development.
On the agenda for IGAD member states’ leaders is the resolution of the ongoing war in Sudan. Additionally, the summit aims to unify regional efforts to eradicate terrorism, stimulate regional integration, and promote peace, economic prosperity, and social development across member states.
In a sideline meeting at the IGAD summit, President Mohamud met with Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed. According to an official tweet from Villa Somalia, the two leaders engaged in fruitful discussions on bilateral and regional matters of mutual interest.
