Friday March 15, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) - Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud convened a meeting with police commanders, military operation leaders, Armed Forces Commanders, and the Minister of Defense at the Police Command Headquarters in Mogadishu on Thursday.
President Mohamud discussed with army leaders the need to expedite operations to liberate the country and ensure the security of major towns, including the capital. He commended the Somali army's sacrifices in liberating areas from the al-Shabab group, emphasizing strict accountability for matters related to the ongoing war.
"We consistently defeat the enemy. Hence, we aim to prevent the group from reclaiming defeated areas and ensure their permanent removal," President Hassan Sheikh emphasized.
He reiterated the government's commitment to counterterrorism efforts, highlighting the crucial role of public cooperation in the country's warfare.
In the past week, government forces and local militias withdrew from several towns in the central Mudug region, resulting in al-Shabaab militants regaining control. Between March 9 and 14, forces vacated Ba'adweyne, 'Aad, 'Amara, and Hinlabi, relinquishing previously liberated territories. Reports attribute the withdrawals to unpaid salaries, the necessity for troop rotations, bribery, and internal political discord.
Last night, militants from the al-Shabab group attacked a hotel near the presidential palace in Mogadishu, the capital of Somalia.
The SYL Hotel, popular among government officials, was targeted by the Islamist group, which had attacked it previously. Witnesses reported explosions and gunfire from inside the hotel, with fighters allegedly present.
Media associated with the group claimed that four Somali MPs sustained injuries. However, the government has yet to issue a statement regarding the incident.