MOGADISHU, June 13 – Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held key meetings in the town of Jowhar on Saturday with security officials and traditional elders from Hirshabelle State, focusing on strengthening security and enhancing cooperation between local communities and security forces.
The president received briefings from commanders of the Somali National Armed Forces operating in Hirshabelle on recent gains in the fight against the Al-Shabaab insurgency and ongoing efforts to maintain stability in the region.
Hassan Sheikh praised the security forces for what he described as their commitment and sacrifices in achieving tangible progress against the militant group, safeguarding civilians and supporting communities in areas under their responsibility.
He also met with traditional elders to discuss their role in supporting the implementation of the country’s planned universal elections, promoting Somalia’s democratization process and reinforcing state institutions.
The president commended the elders for their longstanding contribution to peacebuilding, social cohesion and state formation, emphasizing the importance of traditional leadership in ensuring the success of the upcoming electoral process.
Later, accompanied by Hirshabelle State President Ali Abdullahi Hussein, Hassan Sheikh inspected the nearly completed building that will house the Hirshabelle House of Representatives.
The visit comes as Somalia intensifies military operations against Al-Shabaab while preparing for elections that the federal government says will expand public participation in the country’s political process.
