Somali soldiers desert frontlines after clan leader's call
Dozens of soldiers from the Hawadle clan have returned to Beledweyne following a directive from their traditional leader.
Somalia's army is experiencing significant desertions as soldiers from the Hawadle clan abandon frontlines. This follows a call from their clan leader, Ugas Yusuf Ugas Hassan, for servicemen to withdraw and assemble at his residence in Beledweyne. Footage shows numerous Somali National Army (SNA) soldiers arriving at the clan leader's home over the past two days.
The departures pose a challenge to the federal government's efforts to maintain a unified national force amid clan tensions. This situation arises as African Union and Ugandan forces withdraw, increasing pressure on Somalia's military. The reliability of frontline deployments and the army's capacity to fight Al-Shabaab are now questioned.
Ugas Hassan has reportedly told the returned soldiers they will launch an offensive once enough men have gathered, though no target or plan was specified. This follows an earlier appeal for Hawadle clansmen to arm themselves against a perceived government-backed offensive by rival clans. Soldiers have reportedly withdrawn from key positions in Galgaduud, Lower Shabelle, and Middle Shabelle regions.
Why it mattersThe desertions weaken Somalia's military as it prepares to take over national security responsibilities from international forces.