Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vowed to continue military operations against Al-Shabaab, praising Somali forces and local fighters while pledging to strengthen national security and advance state-building efforts.
MOGADISHU (Somali Report) — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has vowed to press ahead with military operations against Al-Shabaab militants, praising national forces and local fighters involved in the campaign against the Islamist insurgency.
In a statement on the country's security situation, Mohamud said his government remained committed to strengthening security, continuing the fight against the armed group and advancing state-building efforts and democratic reforms.
"I assure you today that the government is committed to continuing the fight against Al-Shabaab, strengthening security, accelerating state-building and implementing one-person, one-vote elections," he said.
The president praised the Somali National Army for what he described as its sustained efforts and courage in defending the country and protecting civilians.
He also commended security forces for preventing attacks by militants, accusing the group of repeatedly attempting to undermine peace and stability in Somalia.
"I also commend the security forces, who have selflessly stood against the enemy, Al-Shabaab, which constantly seeks to thwart the will of the Somali people," Mohamud added.
The president urged Somalis to support the national security forces, safeguard peace and contribute to rebuilding state institutions.
His remarks come as government forces and allied local fighters continue military operations against Al-Shabaab in several parts of the country, where authorities have reported advances against the group.
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Al-Shabaab, which is affiliated with Al-Qaeda, has waged an insurgency against Somalia's internationally backed federal government for more than 15 years. The group regularly carries out attacks against security forces, government officials and civilians, including bombings in the capital, Mogadishu.
The group killed dozens of soldiers in an ambush attack on army convoy heading to Burhakaba days ago amid conflict in Southwest State of Somalia.
Somalia's government has intensified military operations against the militants in recent years, relying on the national army, regional forces and community-based fighters, often referred to as Macawisley.
The campaign has sought to weaken the group's territorial control, disrupt its supply routes and dismantle its networks across central and southern Somalia.
However, Al-Shabaab continues to pose a major security threat, retaining the capacity to launch deadly attacks and conduct operations in areas beyond its main strongholds.
Mohamud has repeatedly presented the offensive against the group as a central priority of his administration, linking improved security to broader efforts to strengthen government institutions and establish a functioning democratic system.
The president's latest remarks reaffirm his government's intention to sustain the military campaign while pursuing its political and security objectives.
About the Author
Ahmed Omar is a senior journalist for Somali Report, based in Mogadishu. He has two decades of experience reporting on Somalia for international and local media. He covers politics, security, governance, business, trade, economic developments and regional affairs.
