Hormuud dismisses as ‘baseless propaganda’ Al-Shabaab influence claims

Mobile operator Hormuud Telecom has dismissed as ‘baseless propaganda’ allegations by the US magazine, Foreign Policy that the Mogadishu based telco has influence in the militant group Al-Shabaab.

“The article’s allegations that there is ‘plenty of Al-Shabaab influence to communicate when fighting’ is baseless which is contrary to our company’s core values,” Hormuud said in a statement.

In a story appearing August 7 in the Foreign Policy, the writer, Amanda Sperber said Hormuud Telecom ‘has a sizable market share and plenty of al-Shabab influence—to communicate when fighting,” a charge the company has vehemently denied.

Hormuud also said it was ‘disappointed’  by the article ‘in which the author attempted to defame our quality brand and services adding the company is ‘proud of the positive role that it continues to play in connecting people both at home and abroad.”

“We provide quality and reliable telecommunications services legitimately to the Somali people, including, the government and its Armed Forces,” the company said.

The article which has also received criticism from the African Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) alleged Hormuud easily taps mobile phones used by Somali National Army.

Earlier, AMISOM distanced itself from statements attributed to a senior AMISOM soldier likening the process of rebuilding Somalia to ‘cleaning a pig’.

“The commentary and statements made by the people quoted in the story do not in any way reflect the views and position of AMISOM,” Amisom said.

The Mission added it was committed to executing its role and mandate in Somalia.

“AMISOM totally disassociates itself from this publication in its entirety. AMISOM remains committed to supporting the government of Somalia in rebuilding national security institutions and commends the progress made so far.”