Mogadishu, Somalia – President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has publicly acknowledged that members of extremist organizations have obtained the new National Identification Card, a revelation he says was confirmed by Somalia’s security agencies.
Speaking in Mogadishu, the President stated that although these individuals are considered threats to national stability, “they remain Somali citizens who have chosen the path of terrorism.” He emphasized that the National ID system is a citizen-based registration mechanism, and not a political endorsement of anyone’s actions.
The President’s remarks come amid growing debate over the rollout and integrity of the National ID programme, which is being implemented by the Immigration and Citizenship Agency of Somalia.
Jubbaland and Puntland Reject Reliability of the ID System
The Federal Member States of Jubbaland and Puntland had earlier raised alarms about the security of the card, insisting that the system remains vulnerable to infiltration and cannot be trusted. Both administrations subsequently refused to participate in or recognize the implementation of the ID in their regions, arguing that “the system requires stronger safeguards before nationwide adoption.”
Their criticisms have gained renewed attention following the President’s latest confirmation, which they argue validates their initial concerns.
Federal Government Defends the Programme
In contrast, federal officials insist the programme is secure, sophisticated, and crucial for the country’s long-term stabilisation. They argue that establishing a unified national registry is an essential tool for governance, policing, elections, and service delivery.
However, the debate intensified yesterday when a minister from the Federal Government stated that under current security arrangements, only two groups are allowed to carry weapons: federal security forces and terrorist groups—an admission that sparked significant public outrage.
The minister’s comment, widely interpreted as highlighting the government’s inability to control the arms flow, has further fuelled scrutiny of national security protocols, including concerns about how extremist operatives gained access to official identification documents.
Broader Implications
The revelations come at a sensitive moment for Somalia, as the country works to build unified federal institutions, combat Al-Shabaab, and consolidate national security reforms.
Critics argue that the ID controversy exposes gaps in federal-state cooperation and ongoing weaknesses within security structures. Supporters of the ID programme maintain that the solution is not to halt implementation, but to accelerate reforms and strengthen verification procedures, ensuring no militant group exploits the system.
Growing Pressure for Transparency
Civil society groups, security analysts, and political leaders are now calling for the Federal Government to release a detailed report explaining:
• How extremist groups acquired the ID
• What verification steps were followed
• What disciplinary actions or reforms will be applied
• How national security agencies plan to prevent future breaches
As the debate continues, the issue is expected to feature prominently in upcoming federal–state dialogues, with calls for a unified approach to national identification, security reform, and counterterrorism cooperation.
