Somalia PM Reshuffles Cabinet Amid Surging Al-Shabaab Attacks

MOGADISHU, Somalia  — Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre announced a sweeping cabinet reshuffle on Sunday, less than a year before the end of the federal government’s term, as the country faces escalating attacks by Al-Shabaab militants in its southern and central regions.

Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, who has served as foreign minister since April 2024 and previously led Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), was appointed defense minister. A close ally of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Fiqi has consistently supported the president’s stance on national unity and opposition to Somaliland’s secessionist ambitions.

Abdisalam Abdi Ali, who held the role of second deputy prime minister for just six months, was named the new foreign minister. Ali, known for his diplomatic experience and international relations expertise, has yet to fully demonstrate his domestic political influence.

Jibril Abdirashid Haji, the former defense minister for less than six weeks, was reassigned as second deputy prime minister, replacing Ali. The move signals significant internal shifts within the government.

The reshuffle comes at a critical juncture for Somalia’s federal government, which is grappling with intensified Al-Shabaab assaults, internal political disputes, and waning public confidence ahead of the 2026 general elections. The Al-Qaeda-linked group has increased its attacks, placing additional pressure on the administration.

Prime Minister Barre is expected to make further changes in the coming weeks to strengthen his political position before the final year of his government’s term. Analysts say the reshuffle aims to bolster the administration’s response to security and governance challenges as Somalia navigates a precarious path toward stability.

GAROWE ONLINE