By Dawan Africa - Reporter
Dhusamareb(Mogadishu24)-President Hassan's appearance, marked with unshaved hair, fatigue and sleeplessness in his eyes through his three-week stay in Dhusamareb, shows the weight the 67-year-old Leader is carrying, leading his country through one of Africa’s longest conflict.
At the end of the consultative meeting, President Hassan Sheikh delivered a 19-minute speech addressing a wide range of issues.
The President showed his determination against Al-Shabaab by using a Somali saying: "Al-Shabaab is the like the broom while the people are like the land, and the land always remains". This saying is usually used by the weaker side to claim that they still own the land.
This confession made by the President gives Al-Shabaab motivation and encouragement at a time when they are facing their difficult battle.
The president responded indirectly and with measured detachment to the criticism of the Jubaland President, Ahmed Madobe, directed at the people of Galmudug. He noted that Somalia is a large country and needs time to return it completely to the hands of the government, stating that the government’s actions align with its capabilities.
His speech focused on giving clans in the liberated areas and guarantees that “the government will never go backwards”. He tried to deny claims of government forces withdrawing from the areas, leaving Al-Shabaab on the ground. He echoed a statement he attributed to Al-Shabaab ten years ago.
A year into the war against Al-Shabaab, the President stated that this is the time for reward and accountability, revealing the need for holding accountable high-ranking officials who have committed offences.
He described efforts and the role of businessmen in providing aid and assistance to the affected areas insufficient. He took advantage to convey that the community is part of the stabilization process.
Unlike the beginning of his speech, the President mentioned the Government’s ability and great power in controlling the country, offering amnesty not only to young Al-Shabaab members but also elders, which he claimed was a matter of concern.
He discussed the uncertainties among clans and highlighted the power struggles and political supremacy. His intention was to provide clans with assurances and a sense of security.
He concluded his speech with words of inspiration drawn from the song “Maalmihii wacnaa wey soo socdaan,” which simply translates “Good days are coming,” a song sung by Abdirizack Anshax and written by the renowned Somali poet,Jeylani.
