The Federal Government of Somalia’s (FGS) State Minister for Interior, Reconciliation, and Federalism, Sadaad Alio, has publicly expressed concerns over the removal of his VIP police escort, a move he claims was ordered by Somali Police Commissioner, General Asad Osman Abdullahi, also known as Asad Diyaano.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, Minister Alio accused General Diyaano of instructing the police to stop providing him with the escort service, which he asserts he is entitled to by law as both a State Minister and a national Member of Parliament.
“I am entitled to police protection as per the laws governing my position, and no individual has the authority to strip me of these rights,” Alio wrote. He further emphasized that the Somali Police Commissioner would be held responsible for any adverse consequences resulting from what he described as an unconstitutional action.
This dispute between the State Minister and the Somali Police Commissioner highlights growing tensions within the government of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. The situation underscores concerns about internal divisions, with some critics suggesting that the administration is struggling to maintain command and control.
The issue comes at a time of increasing political fragmentation within the country, as regional states such as Jubaland and Puntland have distanced themselves from the federal government. The withdrawal of the minister’s police escort, a seemingly minor issue, has further fueled perceptions of discord within the central government.
To date, neither General Diyaano nor other senior government officials, including those from the Prime Minister’s office, have responded to the Minister’s complaint. The lack of a timely response to this matter has raised concerns about the government’s ability to manage internal issues effectively, particularly given the ongoing challenges facing the nation.
As the situation continues to unfold, many are calling for a swift resolution to prevent further instability and to ensure that government operations are not undermined.
