MOGADISHU, April 19, 2025 (SMN) – Somali General Sheikh Yusuf Indha-Cadde has voiced strong criticism of the country’s military strategy, following Al-Shabaab’s recent capture of Aadan Yabaal district in Middle Shabelle region.
In an interview with Radio Shabelle, General Indha-Cadde expressed deep concern over what he described as the Somali National Army’s passive posture in the face of militant threats. “It is not acceptable for our forces to remain on the defensive,” he said. “Al-Shabaab are guerrilla fighters who mobilize heavily before launching attacks.”
The general emphasized the need for the military to carry out continuous offensive operations, warning that any lapse gives the extremist group room to regroup and strike. “The army must keep the pressure on; otherwise, we give Al-Shabaab the upper hand,” he added.
He also highlighted the destabilizing impact of improvised explosive devices (IEDs), frequently used by the group during raids. “These bombings often demoralize our troops and hamper their effectiveness,” Indha-Cadde noted, calling for greater focus on counter-IED measures.
Turning to recent remarks made by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, the general criticized the head of state for publicly acknowledging that Al-Shabaab occasionally defeats government forces. “Such statements should never come from the President,” he said. “They can weaken the morale of our soldiers who are currently on the frontlines.”
Last week, President Mohamud stated that the conflict sees both victories and setbacks, noting that while the army wins some battles, Al-Shabaab also scores occasional gains – a comment that has sparked national debate following the group’s re-capture of Aadan Yabaal.
