
Tuesday December 10, 2024

Outgoing Danab Commander Arab Dheeg Ahmed (left) and his successor Arif Hire Salad (right). Ahmed was recently dismissed amid rising tensions between Somalia’s federal government and Jubbaland.
Mogadishu (HOL) — The Somali National Army (SNA) has removed the commander of its elite Danab special forces' 162nd Battalion, replacing him with a new leader in a decision that spotlights the simmering tensions between Somalia's federal government and Jubbaland authorities.
The dismissal of Arab Dheeg Ahmed, announced on Tuesday, follows his public criticism of recent promotions granted to defectors from Jubbaland forces who surrendered to federal troops in Raaskambooni. Ahmed argued that the promotions overlooked the contributions of Danab soldiers actively stationed in Jubbaland, a region pivotal in the fight against Al-Shabaab.
Ahmed had taken to social media to voice his discontent, describing the promotions as a blow to the morale of frontline troops. "The promotions should have been awarded to the Danab forces who have risked their lives securing Jubbaland," he wrote. His comments came just a day before his dismissal.
Despite the controversy, Ahmed responded to his removal with measured composure. "Today, I have been relieved of my duties after serving for four years and six months. I worked tirelessly for my religion, country, and people to the best of my ability," he posted on Facebook. He hinted at revealing the reasons behind his dismissal at an unspecified later date.
Ahmed congratulated his successor, Arif Hire Salad, calling him "the most deserving individual for this critical role." He pledged to hand over the command with dignity and respect, describing the leadership transition as an opportunity to strengthen the battalion's mission.
His dismissal comes as relations between the federal government and Jubbaland's administration have deteriorated in recent weeks. On November 28, Jubbaland suspended relations with the federal administration following a dispute over regional elections. The federal government opposed the re-election of Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe, leading to reciprocal arrest warrants and increased military presence in the region.
The political discord has led to military buildups, with reports of both federal and Jubaland forces amassing troops in strategic areas, raising concerns about potential armed conflict.