Mohamed Addow

Enrolled an MA in Peace and Conflict studies at @UniOfYork| interested in CVE, DDRR, SSR and TJ in post conflict settings. voracious and ardent reader.

[Patrick Heinisch @PatrickHeinisc1]

#Somalia's president Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is seeking to extend his influence in the federal state of Galmudug. Preparations for the regional presidential election, postponed till 9 June, are taking place against a tense backdrop. https://t.co/lAaRpe2QzG

[𝗡𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗲𝗳 @NadeefSO]

It is now clear, more than ever before, that former President @HassanSMohamud does not want the people to peacefully protest and reject his dictatorial ambitions.
He is afraid of the people's voice! And will do anything to stop it as we have seen.

[Critical Threats @criticalthreats]

NEW | Over a dozen countries, including the United States, called for the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) and the leading Somali Future Council (SFC) opposition coalition to return to dialogue amid an intensifying constitutional and electoral dispute.

The FGS’s attempts to consolidate political control across Somalia have put it on a collision course with the SFC and alienated even formerly pro-FGS Federal Member States. 🧵⬇️

[Abdurahman Sheikh Azhari @HOA_ANALYST]

#Terroristfaces
The Architects of East African Jihadism: Fazul Abdullah Mohammed and Saleh Ali Saleh Nabhan

Fazul Abdullah Mohammed and Saleh Ali Saleh Nabhan were among the most influential extremist operatives in East Africa, widely regarded as key architects behind the emergence of militant jihadist networks in the region. Both men played a central role in facilitating the ideological and operational foundations that contributed to the rise of Al-Shabaab in Somalia, while serving as senior representatives of Al-Qaeda in East Africa.

Their influence extended beyond Somalia, as they reportedly sought to inspire and strengthen militant activities capable of operating across regional borders, particularly in Kenya and Ethiopia. Through strategic guidance, recruitment networks, and transnational militant coordination, they became deeply embedded in the evolution of violent extremist movements in the Horn of Africa.

Saleh Ali Saleh Nabhan was killed in 2009 during a United States military operation conducted by U.S. Navy SEALs in southern Somalia. Fazul Abdullah Mohammed was later killed in 2011 by Somali government forces after reportedly entering Mogadishu and mistakenly crossing into an area outside Al-Shabaab’s territorial control.

Both men were also associated with the formation of Jaysh Ayman, a foreign fighter dominated militant wing linked to Al-Shabaab, which focused primarily on Kenya’s coastal regions. The group sought to expand insurgent operations inside Kenya, although sustained counterterrorism pressure by Kenyan security forces significantly weakened its operational reach and pushed many of its elements toward border regions adjacent to Somalia.

#Alqaeda
#AlShabaab
#Somalia
#Kenya
#Ethiopia
#Eastafrica
#Counterterrorism
#Security

[Mohamed Addow @MohammedAddow1]

Scoop:
As per sources, the FGS is deploying the Gorgor Battalion, evacuated from @TheVillaSomalia by Hassan Sheikh, now coordinating a raid against @HESharifShAhmed . Around 400 forces gathered at Gaadiidka Police in Abdiasis District, readying for a last resort against Sharif.

[Abdurahman Sheikh Azhari @HOA_ANALYST]

#SecurityAlert
Rising Armed Political Tensions in Mogadishu Amid Government Opposition Clashes

Mogadishu appears to be sliding deeper into an increasingly volatile and asymmetrical armed confrontation, one marked by a clear display of force and political power struggle. The fighting that erupted last night and continued into this morning between Government Forces and fighters reportedly loyal to former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khayre resulted in casualties among civilians as well as losses on both sides. There are growing concerns that further clashes could erupt in other parts of Mogadishu, particularly in areas inhabited by opposition figures.

The Federal Government appears determined to assert its authority through force against armed opposition members. However, there are increasing assessments that achieving such an objective may prove extremely difficult and potentially costly, given the densely populated nature of Mogadishu and the heightened risk of severe civilian casualties and urban destruction.

The Commander of the Banadir Regional Police Division Colonel Mahdi publicly displayed heavy weapons which he claimed had been seized from forces aligned with former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khayre. He also issued a warning to other opposition groups, urging them to surrender their weapons. Nevertheless, such calls appear unlikely to gain traction amid deepening political mistrust and escalating tensions.
Photo source: Dalsan TV

#Somalia
#Mogadishu
#Security
#FGS
#Opposition
#Elections
#Politicaldeadlock
#HOA

[Mohamed Addow @MohammedAddow1]

@AliOmarMP You are among those lethal people who are cancerous and a stumbling block to Somalia's state-building trajectory.

[Mohamed Addow @MohammedAddow1]

Even though you did the same in your term, however, you are much better than @HassanSMohamud

[SMS Somali TV @SMSSomaliTV1]

“The order you gave to attack former #leaders in their homes is not right. Hassan Sheikh, I warned you about this before, but you did not listen.”

— Former #President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmaajo.

[Abdurahman Sheikh Azhari @HOA_ANALYST]

A challenging situation requiring urgent attention is unfolding in Mogadishu. A peaceful and constructive political dialogue remains essential to achieving mutual understanding and a sustainable resolution.

[Mohamed Addow @MohammedAddow1]

Turkey deployed drones and military equipments to be used against political figures. Their drones are being used by the current regime, hovering around the premises of the opposition to collect ISR. They’re also coordinating narratives to desecrate the images of the opposition.

[Umut Çağrı Sarı @umutcagrisariii]

Former Somali Prime Minister, UAE backed Norwegian warlord, is reportedly negotiating an exit plan from Mogadishu following an alleged failed coup attempt. Meanwhile, families of those killed in yesterday’s violence are calling on the government to arrest him and ensure he faces justice.

[Mohamed Addow @MohammedAddow1]

This might sound a bit awkward and hogwash to some but it is actually a damn truth.

[Juxa Farah @FarahJuxa]

Somalia: UN Arms Embargo should be reinstated. Somalia is irresponsible to be armed at this stage.

[Mohamed Addow @MohammedAddow1]

@adancabdulle The FGS always wanted to subdue the escalation ladder but the one million question we need to ask is: how committed the FGS is to open for a political dialogue? Do you think Mahad Salad who already had issues with his kingpin will convince @HESharifShAhmed to relocate back?

[Mohamed Addow @MohammedAddow1]

This belligerent boy needs to undertake Serendi rehabilitation Programme.

[Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur @Amohamednur]

Xiligii hogaamiye kooxeednimada inta qoryo la soo qaato laamiyada la soo fariisan jirey waa la soo dhaafey, dowlad qaan gaar ah iyo ciidan dhiiran oo Sharciga ilaalinaayo ayuu dalku leeyahay.

Qofkii siyaasad raba afka haka hadlo shacabkana cod haka doonto. Wixii intaas ka badan qofkii la yimaada sharcigaa loo simanyahay, wuxuu ka heluu leeyahay.

Guusha shacabkaa iska leh.

[Mohamed Addow @MohammedAddow1]

@elmi11_ahmed @Dahirkulane @HassanSMohamud Put a side the dictionary definition of Warlordism, who is now a warlord in Somalia’s context?

Labeling former heads of state as terrorists is not a good thing. We need to stop the hypocrisy. HSM had a mandate of years and now he turned tables, so what is he expecting?

[Abdurahman Sheikh Azhari @HOA_ANALYST]

#Globalperspective
The Global Dilemma of Reintegrating Former Extremists and Jihadist Combatants

Many countries and diverse societies continue to face significant challenges regarding the rehabilitation and reintegration of former members of terrorist and global jihadist organizations. In countries affected by jihadist insurgencies, it is common for senior members of such groups to defect, surrender, or seek reconciliation with the state. Governments, however, often differ considerably in how they approach and manage these individuals.

Countries deeply impacted by violent extremism, including Syria, Somalia, Afghanistan, Yemen, Iraq, and others, have repeatedly confronted the difficult question of how to deal with former militants. In some cases, individuals defect independently, while in others, former insurgent groups or factions become politically influential or even assume positions of authority within state institutions.

Some countries maintain that former members of terrorist organizations should face strict punitive measures, including prosecution, long term imprisonment, or in some jurisdictions, even capital punishment, arguing that accountability and justice for victims must take precedence over political accommodation. Others take a more rehabilitative or pragmatic approach, believing that defectors who renounce violence should be granted the opportunity to reintegrate into society as ordinary citizens, while in certain contexts, some are even considered eligible to hold senior government or political positions as part of broader peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts.

For many governments and societies, accepting or rehabilitating former extremists is perceived as a political liability, reputational risk, or national embarrassment. There remains a deeply rooted belief that an individual who once embraced terrorism or violent extremism can never fully abandon such ideology. This skepticism often fuels resistance to their reintegration into mainstream society or state structures.

Conversely, some countries view political inclusion, negotiated settlements, or the allocation of public office as part of a pragmatic pathway toward peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and long term stabilization. Others, however, regard such measures as a direct threat to national security and institutional integrity.

These represent two highly polarized approaches that require careful balancing. Given that counterterrorism and the resolution of violent extremism remain global priorities, there is an urgent need for robust legal frameworks governing rehabilitation, amnesty, deradicalization, accountability, and the long term reintegration of former combatants.

Egypt’s reported rejection of Syria’s newly appointed ambassador serves as a contemporary example of the broader political and diplomatic sensitivities surrounding former extremist affiliations and questions of legitimacy in post conflict governance.
@MohammedAddow1
@MartineZeuthen
@RUSI_org
#Syria
#Egypt
#Terrorism
#Counterterrorism
#Rehabilitation
#Reintegration
#Extremism
#Amnesty
#Somalia
#Globaljihad
#Governance

[African Union @_AfricanUnion]

The African Union Commission calls for utmost restraint amidst security developments in #Mogadishu.

African Union Commission is deeply concerned by reported security developments in Mogadishu, including armed clashes in civilian areas.

The Commission calls on all parties to immediately stop the fighting and exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians, and refrain from actions that could further escalate tensions.

The Commission urges all Somali stakeholders to resolve differences through dialogue and established constitutional processes.

The Commission encourages the continuation of the efforts of H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of #Somalia and all political actors in promoting national dialogue, reconciliation and consensus-building towards political stability.

The Commission will continue to closely monitor the situation and assures the readiness of the African Union through its Support and Stabilization Mission (@aussom_ ), to continue to render full support towards the restoration of peace and security in Somalia.

Read @ https://t.co/CmsIvpxkRT

Lire @ https://t.co/Blufo98JYT

[Mursal M Khaliif 🇸🇴 @MPMursalKhaliif]

Your Excellency @HassanAKhaire, you’ve every right to defend yourself as you were attacked by the former pres @HassanSMohamud.
And you shall win!

No dictatorship is possible in Somalia today & HSM will be held accountable for the countless crimes he presided over.

[UK in Somalia🇬🇧🇸🇴 @UKinSomalia]

The UK is deeply concerned by reports of violence in Mogadishu overnight.

Violence is unacceptable and we call on all parties to exercise restraint and engage in inclusive, constructive dialogue to resolve tensions peacefully.

[Adam @adancabdulle]

As I have argued over the past year, the Hotel Jazeera Group lack legitimacy within Mogadishu and are seen as opportunistic cabal guided by the philosophy of “our turn to eat.” In fact, overwhelming majority of the hotel group disappeared yesterday with only 2 figures resisting.

[UNTMIS @UNTMIS_]

.@UNTMIS_ is gravely concerned by the outbreak of fighting in Mogadishu last night and calls on all sides to demonstrate responsible leadership, cease hostilities and refrain from further actions that put civilian lives at risk while returning to dialogue in the interest of all Somalis.

UNTMIS and international partners have repeatedly warned, in our statements and stakeholder engagements, of the risk of repeating the crisis that arose in 2021 over differences regarding the electoral roadmap -- warnings that were unfortunately not  heeded.

UNTMIS urges all Somali leaders to prioritise the national interest and resume the talks that ended on 15 May. Somalia's international partners stand ready to facilitate such a dialogue.