Mogadishu (Isbahaysi) – Recently, the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, issued a decree appointing four new commanders to the Somali National Army (SNA). These appointments have sparked considerable discussion, with many interpreting the creation of these positions as deviating from the traditional structure of the SNA. Here is an overview of the new commanders and their backgrounds:
- Commander of the Special Forces: Major General Ahmed Abdullahi Sheikh
- Background: Hailing from Puntland, Ahmed Abdullahi Sheikh previously resided in Sweden and is closely related to General Asad Diyaano, the Chairman of the Mideeye Political Party in Puntland. He has a history with the PSF (Puntland Security Force), trained by the United States, where he was responsible for Gaalkacayo.
- Career Highlights: Ahmed previously served as the Chief of Protocol for Prime Minister Omar Abdirashid and later became the Commander of the Danab Brigade. Upon President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s return to power, Ahmed was among the officers tasked with organizing and preparing the forces trained by the UAE.
- Commander of Reconnaissance and Intelligence: Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Abdullahi Beeryare
- Background: Originally from Dhusamareb in Galmudug, Beeryare has ties to the Ahlu Sunna religious group. During President Farmaajo’s tenure, he was appointed Commander of the Danab Brigade but was reassigned to lead the Directorate of Reconnaissance and Intelligence when President Hassan was re-elected.
- Career Highlights: Beeryare is known for maintaining good relations with the US government, which trains the Danab Brigade. Reports suggest he was instrumental in exposing the misappropriation of supplies and aid intended for the Danab forces.
- Commander of Training: Lieutenant Colonel Ahmed Iise Ahmed
- Background: Ahmed Iise Ahmed is from the Awdal region and was initially part of the Somaliland Military. He was sent to Ethiopia for advanced military training and education, where he completed a master’s degree in military sciences.
- Career Highlights: Discontent with the leadership of Somaliland’s military under General Nuux Taani, he defected to the Somali National Army during President Farmaajo’s administration. Ahmed is known for his high level of education and dedication.
- Commander of General Support: Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud
- Background: Originally from Jowhar, Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud has held various roles within the Somali National Army, including positions in the Financial Directorate.
- Career Highlights: His previous roles in financial management and other administrative capacities within the SNA have equipped him with the experience necessary for overseeing general support functions in the army.
These appointments have been perceived by some as an attempt to reform and strengthen the Somali National Army by bringing in leaders with diverse backgrounds and extensive experience. However, the integration of these new commands has also been a topic of debate regarding its alignment with the established military structure.
