Mogadishu (WDN)– Fear has gripped Jowhar, the capital of HirShabelle state, as Al-Shabaab militants in large numbers have been seen assembling on the city’s outskirts, demonstrating yet again that Somalia’s central regions have become a battleground where the government fights only to lose.

This latest escalation comes on the heels of a stunning Al-Shabaab raid on Balcad District—just 18 miles from Mogadishu. The attack, timed to coincide with the arrival of Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, saw militants seize control of the district for hours, storming the main prison and freeing their captured fighters. To drive their message home, Al-Shabaab even shelled Mogadishu’s Aden Adde International Airport just before the Ethiopian leader landed, making it clear to the world that they—not President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud—are calling the shots in Somalia.

Since President Hassan came to power, HirShabelle and Galmudug have become perpetual war zones, but instead of making gains, his administration has presided over the annihilation of Somalia’s elite forces. To add insult to injury, Al-Shabaab has not only defeated government troops but has also seized their weapons—turning what was meant to be a counterterrorism operation into a free arms supply for the militants.

Now, as Al-Shabaab positions itself outside Jowhar, government forces and HirShabelle state militias are scrambling to reinforce security at key entry points. However, given the administration’s track record, many fear this will be yet another humiliating disaster. The HirShabelle leadership remains silent, and with Al-Shabab’s recent bold attacks, residents are left wondering if the government is even in the fight anymore.

With Al-Shabaab dictating the terms of engagement and the government on the back foot, it’s no longer a question of whether President Hassan is failing—it’s a question of whether he’s even in control at all.

WardheerNews