Presidential envoy warns tensions in Hiiraan creating room for Al-Shabaab’s return

GOOBJOOG NEWS|HIIRAAN: Outspoken presidential envoy on civilian protection and stabilization Mohamed Ware has warned of attempts to derail efforts against the militant group in Hiiraan region following new feuds between clans in the region.

Ware who also served previously as the president of HirShabelle said the disputes between the Hawaldle and Abgaal sub-clans following the sacking of veteran Hiiraan governor Ali Jeyte were being engineered to derail hard-worn gains against Al-Shabaab in the region.

“We have defeated the Shabaab on the battlefield. Any and every means is being attempted now to reverse the gains. Fueling hostilities between Hawadle and Abgaal communities is the latest. HirShabelle and National Leadership should stop this!” Ware said.

Ware’s remarks follow recent tensions especially in Beletweyne following the removal from office last month of Jeyte who has been the face of the joint military and civilian operations against Al-Shabaab. Jeyte dismissed the newly appointed governor and declared himself the president of ‘Hiiraan state.’

Before Jeyte’s sacking, Ware claimed that Al-Shabaab was mobilising millions of dollars to influence the removal of Jeyte as Hiiraan governor.

Somali National Army and clan militia dubbed Community Defence Forces launched a joint operation last July which saw the ejection of Al-Shabaab from many territories in Hiiraan, Middle Shabelle and Galgadud regions.