Monday August 7, 2023
Dhusamareeb (HOL) - Galmudug's traditional elders have pledged their unwavering support for the federal government's mission to liberate the country from terrorism after a meeting with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Dhusamareeb, the administrative capital of Galmudug State, on Sunday night.
President Mohamud underscored the crucial role of Galmudug's traditional elders in the counterterrorism strategy. He emphasized their leadership in community mobilization, encouragement, guidance, and support for the armed forces, intending to liberate the remaining areas under al-Shabaab control in Galmudug State.
Addressing Galmudug's significant challenge of the Khawarij, a term denoting those deviating from the Islamic faith, President Hassan Sheikh highlighted the elders' responsibility in uniting the populace and playing a pivotal role in assisting the National Army to eliminate the terrorists responsible for shedding innocent blood.
Meanwhile, Somali Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre announced the initiation of the second phase of the anti-al Shabab operation in the country on Sunday. He disclosed that the operation against al-Shabaab in Galmudug and Hirshabelle States would conclude shortly, with the subsequent operation slated for Jubbaland and the South West regions.
Prime Minister Hamse also revealed that the government has prepared approximately 10,000 soldiers to participate in this second phase, dedicated to eradicating al-Shabaab's influence.