Former Somali state leader blames ‘dark forces’ for setbacks in anti-Al-Shabaab operations

Somali

MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – The former president of Hirshabelle State Mohamed Abdi Waare said on Sunday there were people in and outside the government undermining the fight against Al-Shabaab after recent military setbacks in the operations to capture key militant strongholds.

“After the withdrawal of the SNA from Wabxo & the deterioration of clan fighting in Adale, it is clear dark forces in and outside government are jeopardizing the fight against the Khawaarij (Al-Shabaab),” he tweeted. “Sad thing, it is an open secret. It is the time to confront this group & stop them.”

Somali troops have recently pulled out from towns and villages they captured during weeks of operations against Al-Shabaab. The withdrawal came after insurgents overran a number of army bases, killing soldiers and seizing military vehicles and weapons.

In a rural area seized from militants in the Middle Shabelle region, inter-clan fighting has been continuing for days, leading to the death of more than 40 people and destruction of villages. There have been unconfirmed reports of involvement by troops sent to fight the insurgents.

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