CEELDHEER – The Minister of Defence of the Federal Government of Somalia, Ambassador Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, accompanied by the Commander of the Somali National Army (SNA), Major General Ibrahim Mohamed Mahmoud, held a community meeting in the Ceeldheer district of the Galgadud region on Sunday to discuss security, development, and public participation in the electoral process.
The meeting, which brought together local residents, traditional elders, and community leaders, focused on the security situation in the district, the acceleration of operations against extremist groups, and the importance of community involvement in the upcoming elections. Minister Fiqi praised the residents of Ceeldheer for their support of the SNA and their role in securing and liberating areas from militant control.
The visit is part of the government’s broader strategy to monitor and accelerate military campaigns against Al-Shabaab, which has maintained a presence in parts of central Somalia for years. Ceeldheer, a coastal district in Galmudug State, has been a focal point of operations as government forces seek to consolidate control and stabilise liberated areas.
Community Engagement and Security Operations
The meeting highlighted the ongoing security operations in the Galgadud region, which have been a focal point of government efforts to stabilise central Somalia. The Minister and the SNA Commander commended the community for their cooperation with security forces and encouraged them to continue their support.
The Galgadud region has experienced recurring clan clashes over land, grazing rights, and local grievances, often leading to displacement and loss of life. These conflicts have been a persistent challenge for both the Galmudug administration and the federal government.
Call for Collaboration and Electoral Participation
The Defence Minister emphasised the need for continued collaboration between security forces and local communities to ensure lasting peace and stability. He also called on residents to actively participate in the electoral process, underscoring the importance of democratic engagement in the country’s political transition.
The National Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (NIEBC) has officially launched the voter registration drive in the Ceeldheer district, with residents forming long queues to register and participate in the upcoming one-person, one-vote elections.
Security Challenges in Galgadud and Ceeldheer
The Galgadud region has been a longstanding battleground for control between government forces and Al-Shabaab. Ceeldheer, in particular, has experienced periodic militant activity, making it a key focus of military operations. The district was previously under Al-Shabaab control, and government forces have been working to secure the area and prevent the group’s resurgence.
At least seven civilians died when a vehicle in a convoy drove over a landmine near Ceeldheer, with security sources attributing the blast to Al-Shabaab. The attack underscores the ongoing threat posed by the militant group in the region.
Way Forward
The engagement with the Ceeldheer community reflects the federal government’s commitment to building trust and cooperation with local populations as part of its broader strategy to stabilise the Galgadud region. As the government continues its military campaign against Al-Shabaab and works to strengthen governance and development, community partnerships will remain essential for achieving lasting peace and security.
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