Sacked Governor: I am not going anywhere, the war on Al-Shabaab is on

BELEDWEYNE, Somalia - The Estranged Hiiraan Governor Ali Jeyte Osman has dismissed his sacking as "hot air" and "baseless" in his apparent response to HirShabelle leader Ali Gudlawe Hussein, who announced his unprecedented removal from office on Saturday without giving details.

Gudlawe, who has previously been supporting the governor, sacked him without prior notice, a move which has been criticized by security experts who insist that the removal was uncalled for. Gudlawe has been struggling to stamp authority in the state which comprises of Middle Shabelle and Hiiraan regions.

In an interview, Jeyte insisted that he was in "total control" of the region, adding that Hiiraan might consider "seceding" from HirShabelle state for more political autonomy and space to conduct her business. He further warned anyone associated with HirShabelle state against visiting Beledweyne.

Osman declared: "No one from HirShabelle administration is allowed in Hiran. We've ceased air and ground travel and will redirect any planes that defy our orders." "I am in complete control of the region and our determination to free our region will be undeterred."

The Hiran region will break away from Hirshabelle State and become a separate, stand-alone state, Governor Ali Jeyte Osman added. Jeyte called for a conference aimed at completing the formation of “Hiran State" in yet a move that could create conflict in the Horn of Africa nation.

The stylish governor who has been instrumental in the fight against Al-Shabaab vowed to carry on with the war, adding that he will not leave any stone unturned until the militants are completely vanquished in the country. He is known for the mobilization of clan militia against Al-Shabaab.

The current constitution of the federal republic of Somalia allows two or more regions to form a State. Hirshabelle consists of Middle Shabelle and Hiran regions. Jeyte reiterated that his region was never pleased with the merger in the first place, noting that "this is our motivation factor".

Apparently, his dismissal comes shortly before the Somali National Army with the help of international partners commence the second phase of operations against Al-Shabaab which will target Jubaland and Southwest. The first phase mainly targeted HirShabelle and Galmadug where Jeyte played a key role.

GAROWE ONLINE