Thursday April 10, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — The body of General Sheegow Ahmed Ali, a former Somali military officer who died earlier this week, was flown to Jowhar on Thursday following funeral prayers in the capital, Mogadishu.
The Janazah prayer was held at Digfeer Hospital and attended by the general’s relatives, clan elders, and high-ranking officials, including Liibaan Ali Yarow, the Chief Judge of the Somali Military Court. The body was later transported to Aden Adde International Airport and flown to Jowhar, the capital of the Middle Shabelle region, as requested by his family.
Mourners chanted Takbir and demanded justice for General Sheegow during the funeral procession. The general had been sentenced to 10 years in prison by a military court, a ruling that drew criticism from some members of the public who questioned the legal process and motives behind the conviction.
Tensions flared near the airport as government security forces clashed with supporters of the late general. Witnesses reported that troops fired live rounds to disperse the crowd, injuring several people. The number of casualties has not been officially confirmed.
The Somali government has attributed General Sheegow’s death to liver failure following a prolonged illness. However, the circumstances of his death—and the treatment he received during his imprisonment—have fueled calls for an investigation.
General Sheegow served in various military roles and maintained a strong support base within his clan. His burial in Jowhar is expected to draw further attention amid public calls for a review of his case and the conditions under which he was held.