MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has firmly dismissed concerns over recent territorial gains made by the Al-Qaeda-linked militant group Al-Shabaab, insisting that the developments do not signify a failure in the government’s ongoing offensive against the group.
Speaking on Wednesday at the conclusion of the National Human Rights Summit in Mogadishu, President Hassan acknowledged the challenges posed by the extremist group but emphasized that the broader campaign against terrorism has yielded significant achievements over the past two years.
“While there have been some temporary tactical shifts on the ground, including the withdrawal of our forces from certain areas, these do not reflect a failure in our two-year campaign, which has achieved notable successes against the terrorists,” the President stated.
His remarks come in the wake of recent reports that Al-Shabaab militants have retaken control of Aden Yabaal, a strategic town in the Middle Shabelle region.
In a separate incident, government troops also withdrew from the Aboorey area in the Hiran region, prompting fears among residents about the group’s resurgence.
President Hassan reassured the public that the government’s efforts to eradicate Al-Shabaab remain steadfast and that temporary setbacks are a known element in protracted counterinsurgency operations.
“The Somali National Army and our allied forces have liberated vast territories, disrupted supply routes, and dismantled key Al-Shabaab infrastructure. Our campaign is far from over, and we remain committed to defeating terrorism in all its forms,” he said.
The President also used the summit to underscore the importance of upholding human rights in the midst of conflict, reaffirming the government’s pledge to protect civilians and provide humanitarian assistance to displaced communities affected by the fighting.
The recent developments have prompted calls from civil society groups and regional leaders for a reassessment of military strategies and greater coordination between federal and regional security forces. However, the Somali government maintains that its broader counterterrorism objectives remain on track.
