Former Somali Intelligence Chief Mahad Salad Tipped for Minister Role

MOGADISHU, Somalia – Former Somali National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA) chief Mahad Salad is being considered for the role of Somalia’s Minister of Defense, according to sources familiar with the matter.

If appointed, Salad’s selection would replace current Foreign Affairs Minister Ahmed Fiqi, who hails from the same region as Salad.

The reasons behind this potential reshuffle have not been disclosed, but the move comes amid plans for Egyptian forces to join Somalia’s peacekeeping operations.

Mahad Salad, known for his close ties to Egypt, is expected to succeed Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, who is aligned with Turkey.

Salad previously lost his position at NISA due to his perceived closeness to a foreign country with significant influence over Somalia’s domestic and foreign affairs. Since his dismissal, he has been living in Mogadishu.

There was speculation that Salad might run for the presidency of Galmudug, but those plans faded after Galmudug President Ahmed Abdi Karie “Qoor Qoor” supported Villa Somalia’s one-year term extension plan.

The potential replacement of Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur is reportedly linked to the recent appointment of a Deputy Prime Minister from South West State, signaling a broader political realignment by Villa Somalia.

GAROWE ONLINE