Somalia: Sacked Hiran governor declines talks in Mogadishu

BELEDWEYNE, Somalia - Former Hiiraan Governor Ali Jeyte Osman rejected talks with the federal government of Somalia, just days after the anti-Alshabaab crusader was sacked by HirShabelle leader Ali Gudlawe Hussein over unexplained reasons amid the ongoing crackdown against Al-Shabaab.

President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud had invited Jeyte for talks over the squabbles in Hiiraan but the self-proclaimed president of the "new" Hiiraan state downplayed the move. It is not clear why Jeyte has been at loggerheads with Ali Gudlawe Hussein, the regional leader of HirShabelle.

While addressing the media, Jeyte dismissed his sacking as "illegal" and vowed to create a new state in Hiiraan region with the help of the local community. The latest standoff, analysts say, could hinder the fight against Al-Shabaab across the region.

Insiders say Jeyte could be weary of Mohamud's moves with possible embracing of a newly appointed local governor by the administration of Gudlawe. But President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is keen to push for unity with Al-Shabaab crackdown being one of the top agenda.

Jeyte's fame was triggered by his boldness in fighting Al-Shabaab militants, a group which he personally mobilized local militia to have them ejected from parts of HirShabelle. In most cases, he would be pictured carrying a gun and leading from the frontline, winning admiration from locals.

Political wrangles in Somalia are common with some leaders often fighting for power or control of resources. When he assumed power, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud vowed to unite all leaders, a pledge he has fulfilled save for the latest wrangles and Puntland's tactical exclusion.

Somalia anticipates that by the end of 2024 Al-Shabaab militants would have been ejected, with African Union peacekeepers now handing over security responsibilities to local forces. The government has also tightened grip in liberated towns across the country following coordinated actions involving locals.

GAROWE ONLINE