By Abdiqani Haji Abdi
Ministerial press releases traditionally reflect the diplomatic decorum and values expected of government officials. However, the press release issued by Somalia’s Minister of Interior, Ali Yusuf Hosh, on January 11, 2024, starkly diverged from these norms. Intended to express support for Puntland’s military offensive against the global terrorist group ISIS in the mountainous regions, the statement became a source of political discord and controversy.
Rather than reinforcing the Federal Government of Somalia’s (FGS) stance on combating terrorism, Minister Hosh, whose qualifications for office remain questionable, used the press release as a platform to criticize Puntland’s President Said Deni and his administration. This departure from protocol has not only embarrassed the Federal Government of Somalia but has also highlighted systemic issues in leadership appointments. Critics argue that Prime Minister Hamza must act decisively to dismiss Hosh, whose actions have tarnished the government’s reputation at a critical juncture in Somalia’s fight against terrorism.
Adding to the controversy, Minister Hosh has been implicated in leading efforts to derail Puntland’s anticipated one-person-one-vote elections, originally planned for 2024. His alleged association with “Aaran Jaan,” a group linked to armed conflict and disruption in Puntland, has drawn widespread condemnation. The group’s activities, which reportedly included orchestrating violent clashes, caused civilian casualties, significant property damage, and the mass displacement of residents in Garowe, Puntland’s capital.
Faced with these destabilizing efforts, President Said Deni made the decision to revert to traditional clan-based elections to maintain order and meet the scheduled electoral timeline. The January 8, 2024, elections resulted in Deni’s re-election, further solidifying his leadership. Meanwhile, the Aaran Jaan operatives, seeing their mission fail, fled to Mogadishu, likely seeking refuge from the justice awaiting them in Puntland.
The appointment of Hosh—a figure accused of involvement in violent plots and regarded as unfit for public office—has exposed broader concerns about the leadership practices of President Hassan Sheikh. The trend of appointing unqualified individuals to serve political agendas rather than national interests not only undermines the government’s integrity but also jeopardizes Somalia’s progress in governance and security. Minister Hosh’s actions and his controversial appointment underscore the urgent need for accountability and reform within the federal leadership.
Conclusion
If anyone is to be blamed, it would be the Aaran Jaan terrorists, of which Minister Hosh was reportedly a leading member. His involvement in the violence that spilled civilian blood across Garowe and caused widespread displacement of civilians is a tragic chapter. This wasted valuable time that could have been used to execute the 1/P/1/V strategy effectively. At heart, Minister Hosh has shown cowardice, evading responsibility for his failed and deadly actions. Instead of facing the consequences, he fled to Mogadishu to protect himself. However, I am confident that one day, those responsible for the Aaran Jaan terrorists’ actions will be held accountable for their crimes.
Please read the takeaways of Minister Hosh’s disreputable so-called official Press Release
Somalia’s Minister of Interior, Hon. Ali Yusuf Hosh, issued a pointed critique of Puntland’s military campaign against the ISIS faction entrenched in the mountainous regions of the Bari region. Minister Hosh openly criticized Puntland President Said Abdullahi Deni, accusing him of failing in his leadership of the administration.
The Minister further highlighted Puntland’s delayed response to the growing threat of terrorist groups, which he claimed allowed ISIS to gain significant strength in the Bari region. He accused President Deni of neglecting the issue for an extended period, enabling the group’s entrenchment in the area.
“The responsibility lies squarely with Puntland’s leadership, who have failed to address the security challenges facing the region,” Minister Hosh asserted.
Additionally, the Minister directed a message to the people of Puntland, urging them to recognize the reality of the current situation. He called on them to see the direction in which the Puntland administration is heading, warning that it has strayed from the foundational principles on which it was built. He stressed that it is unacceptable for Puntland to be held hostage by personal interests or divisive political agendas.
These remarks come as Puntland continues its intense military campaign against ISIS, which has established a strong presence in parts of Bari’s mountainous regions.
Abdiqani Haji Abdi
Email: Hajiabdi0128@gmail.com
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