Amid attacks, Somali parliament seeks better welfare for armed forces

Hiiraan Online
Sunday, March 13, 2016

Photo: Reuters

MOGADISHU (HOL) – Somalia’s parliament has called for the government to improve the welfare of the armed forces, in a rare push which seeks a new morale boosting feat for the ill-equipped army struggling in the backdrop of a deadly insurgency by Al Shabab group.

Working under tough conditions including lack of regular wages and equipment for years, Somali army is locked in a deadly war with one of the most dangerous global jihadist groups: Al-Shabab which despite being ousted from its key strongholds continues to challenge government’s efforts to extend its rule across the country.

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Critics say that despite being financially fragile, the government has failed to prioritize its army which is struggling to restore law and order into one of the most dangerous countries on the planet.

In a report issued after a week-long security assessment, Somali parliament highlighted the need for developing the armed forces’ benefits, recommending ensuring regular monthly payments and additional benefits for the army.

“We hereby call for the government to reintroduce the No. 8 rule which was initially introduced in March 1965 to ensure the welfare of the armed forces or support families of those who die in line of duty and also build a commission that would work on this important matter.” said a statement issued by Somali parliament on Saturday evening.

Members of the country’s parliament have also called for the government to review the armed forces’ basic salaries, in view of individual ranks of members of the army, in an apparent hint for pay increments for armed forces.

The development comes after lawmakers grilled Somali prime minister, security minister and the intelligence chief over security failures after the Al-Qaeda linked Al Shabab group carried series of attacks in Mogadishu and Baidoa town, killing scores of people.

Meanwhile, Somali legislators have also reiterated need for introducing a monthly army budget to meet the expense of intelligence gathering and security operations to maintain security in the country.

Once mighty, Somalia’s army destroyed by decades old conflict is rebuilding on the backdrop of the rising power of the militant group which despite facing a multi-pronged offensive continues to carry out attacks across the country.

Hundreds of millions dollars has been spent arming and training theSomali army largely by the European Union to oust the Al-Qaeda linked Al Shabab fighters that continues guerrilla attacks across large parts of the country.

The non-payment of salaries, stretching up to six months for some troops, has strained relations between the government and foreign donors, such as the United States and European nations, who have invested billions of dollars to stabilize Somalia and stem the spread of radical Islam from the Horn of Africa, according to Reuters.

However, Somalia’s president assured that his army does receive their basic salaries in response to allegations that Somali government mishandled money meant for Somali army by donors, despite having acknowledged challenges facing his government in paying its soldiers in a good time.

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