Mogadishu (WDN) – Somalia’s Minister of Internal Security, Abdullahi Sheikh Fartaag, has come under intense criticism following controversial remarks he made during the launch of the Justice and Unity Party, a political formation closely associated with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. His statements, widely circulated on social media, are being interpreted as veiled threats against dissenters and critics of the new party.

Reports have emerged suggesting that President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is actively grooming Minister Fartaag for Jubaland leadership—a political maneuver that is fueling fears of renewed tensions in the already fragile federal member state.

Sources close to the matter allege that president Hassan’s backing of Fartaag is part of a broader strategy to weaken the current Jubaland administration and consolidate federal influence in the region., which could deepen divisions among Jubaland’s diverse communities and reignite inter-clan rivalries.

Speaking at the Justice and Unity Party event, Minister Fartaag declared that all federal regions—including Somaliland, Khaatumo, Puntland, Galmudug, Hirshabelle, South West State, Banadir, and Jubaland—were represented and expected to open branches of the new party. He went on to warn:

“Everyone is included—Somaliland, Khaatumo, Puntland, Galmudug, Hirshabelle, South West State, Banadir, and Jubaland. Tonight, the objective is to launch this party called Justice and Unity. Whoever opposes it or says it should not be launched—he will be dealt with, insha’Allah. Because what we are pursuing is democracy, unity, and solidarity.”

His remarks have drawn strong condemnation from the public and political commentators, with many accusing him of issuing threats against those who oppose the ruling elite’s consolidation of power. But what has further intensified the backlash is the glaring contradiction in his position: Minister Fartaag hails from Jubaland, a Federal Member State that has officially boycotted the so-called Justice and Unity Party and rejected its legitimacy.

“It is dangerous for a federal minister—especially one from Jubaland, which has opposed this political project—to threaten Somali citizens under the guise of promoting democracy,” said one senior political observer who requested anonymity. “Fartaag is clearly not representing his people; he is serving those who handed him power.”

This disconnect has led to widespread speculation that Minister Fartaag is acting not on behalf of his state, but as a political operative for Villa Somalia, prompting critics to label him a “hired gun” for President Hassan’s administration. Analysts say his presence at the party’s launch and his aggressive defense of its agenda directly contradict Jubaland’s position, undermining his credibility as a neutral security official.

Opposition leaders and civil society organizations have warned that the government’s growing use of federal institutions to push its partisan agenda risks plunging the country deeper into political fragmentation. The Minister’s comments are seen as part of a broader pattern of coercion and political manipulation under the current administration.

While the government has yet to clarify or distance itself from Fartaag’s remarks, the damage appears to be done. His statement has not only alienated his home state but also sparked new questions about the politicization of the Ministry of Security and the broader erosion of Somalia’s federal compact.

“With key regions like Puntland and Jubaland continuing to boycott the federal process and the NCC, and with the ruling party accused of bypassing constitutional norms, the country appears headed toward further polarization.

WDN will continue to monitor the situation.