Abandoned on the Frontlines: Macawislay Fighters in Central Somalia Decry Months Without Pay

The Macawislay fighters within the central regions of Somalia have threatened to down their tools, following delays in payment of their salaries in the last six months, making their mobility difficult in fighting the Al-Shabaab militants.

Stationed in Middle Shabelle, the fighters said their dues have been deliberately delayed by those in charge, despite their support for the government troops stationed in the Middle Shabelle region and other neighbouring areas.

The team is contemplating withdrawal from defensive positions in Wargaadhi, Maxaa Saciid, Nuur Dugle, Xaaji Cali, Raaga Celle, Labo Garas, and other nearby areas in the Middle Shabelle region. It is not clear why they haven't been paid in the last six months.

Each Macawiisley fighter was promised a monthly payment of $100 from the government. The militia members reportedly received payments for only two months before the funds stopped, multiple sources told Garowe Online.

Local sources describe growing frustration among fighters who have been on the front lines for nine months without pay, saying their hardship has been ignored by the government. The government has excelled on the frontlines due to the support from these local fighters.

Critics accuse President Hassan Sheikh of remaining silent despite the ongoing issue, which has left frontline defenders without the salaries they were promised. The president had promised to defeat Al-Shabaab within the last three years, but the group made massive gains recently.

Al-Shabaab militants are facing an onslaught from the Somali National Army (SNA) with close supervision from the US Africa Command, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), and the local Macawislay fighters.

GAROWE ONLINE