Mogadishu (WDN)- The Somali government, under Hassan Sheikh long characterized by frequent cabinet reshuffles and the creation of redundant or symbolic positions, continues to exhibit alarming signs of mismanagement, short-termism, and political opportunism. A hallmark of this administration has been the rapid and often unexplained reshuffling of key cabinet positions and the arbitrary creation of new government portfolios—such as the recently introduced Second Deputy Prime Minister—without consultation with Parliament or alignment with national priorities. This comes despite Somalia’s severe resource constraints and the urgent need to focus on governance, security, and service delivery.

These new positions, created without parliamentary approval or public justification, join a bloated executive structure in which the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister have been largely sidelined, while President Hassan has increasingly consolidated power in his own hands, undermining the very checks and balances necessary for a functioning government.

In a striking example of this pattern, Mahad Salad has been reappointed as the Director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA)—a position from which he was previously removed. His initial dismissal stemmed from NISA’s failure to prevent high-profile security breaches, Al Shabab’s encroachment, growing insecurity and alleged political interference within the intelligence apparatus.

Now, without any clear reforms, new strategy, or accountability measures announced, Mahad’s reinstatement raises pressing questions: What has changed since his removal? What qualifies him now to lead the agency more effectively than before? The decision reflects a disturbing lack of foresight and signals that critical appointments are being driven more by political loyalty and inner-circle dynamics than by merit or national interest.

Equally concerning is the repeated and hasty replacement of ministers—most recently the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Defense—both of whom were reshuffled serving a short term. These erratic decisions compromise policy continuity, disorient international partners, and erode public trust in the government’s capacity to deliver on its core responsibilities.

Altogether, these developments reveal an administration operating without a coherent strategy or long-term vision. The absence of planning, disregard for institutional processes, and blatant mismanagement at the highest levels continue to exacerbate Somalia’s insecurity, political instability, and developmental stagnation. If unaddressed, this pattern will further entrench dysfunction and push the country deeper into crisis.

WardheerNews