By mohamed Abdi - Reporter
MOGADISHU, Somalia (Dawan Africa) – Somalia’s Minister of Youth and Sports, Mohamed Abdulkadir, has rejected claims that the removal of National Youth Council Chairman Mohamed “Champion” was linked to his public remarks on challenges facing Somali youth, saying the leadership change forms part of broader institutional reforms.
Speaking on Miizaan Podcast, of Dawan Media, Abdulkadir said the restructuring of the National Youth Council is intended to strengthen the institution and should not be interpreted as action against any individual.
The minister was responding to questions about Mohamed “Champion”’s departure following a speech delivered on May 15, in which the chairman highlighted a range of challenges facing young Somalis.
Abdulkadir said the concerns raised in the speech had already been presented directly to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud during a separate meeting with young entrepreneurs, adding that the government had since taken steps to address those issues.
“The matter was not related to the chairman’s remarks. The government’s focus is reforming the institution, not targeting an individual,” the minister said.
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He explained that the National Youth Council is undergoing a comprehensive reform process that will redefine its leadership structure and membership criteria, adding that former office holders could be eligible to serve again if they meet the requirements of the new framework.
The minister described Mohamed “Champion” as someone who had contributed to the council and worked closely with the ministry, saying the leadership transition reflected broader institutional challenges rather than any single public statement.
Abdulkadir said the reform process would involve consultations with youth representatives, government officials and other stakeholders before the council’s new governance structure is finalised.
The minister’s remarks came amid public speculation that Mohamed “Champion”’s criticism of youth conditions had contributed to his removal, a claim Abdulkadir firmly denied, insisting that the decision was driven by institutional reform rather than political considerations.