Monday May 26, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) – A proposal to deduct $500 monthly from the salaries of members of the Somali Federal Parliament to support the Ma’awisley clan militia fighting Al-Shabaab in the Hiiraan region sparked strong opposition and debate during a session on Saturday.
The motion, which was introduced by parliamentary leadership, aimed to provide direct financial support to Ma’awisley fighters who are cooperating with the Somali National Army (SNA) in recent offensives against the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.
House Speaker Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur Madoobe emphasized that lawmakers have a national duty to support forces defending the country, saying the funds would go toward sustaining frontline operations.
However, several MPs rejected the proposal. MP Abdirashid Jiley, speaking on behalf of a group of dissenting lawmakers, criticized the plan as unfair and regionally biased.
“We cannot endorse selective support. Puntland forces are fighting ISIS, and the Southwest region also needs assistance. A national strategy is needed, not targeted favoritism,” MP Jiley said.
Opponents argue that the move would set a precedent for selectively funding local militias and further alienate regions already feeling neglected by the federal government.
Following a heated debate, the motion did not pass, leaving the issue unresolved amid growing frustrations over the uneven federal response to regional security needs.
The dispute comes as Ma’awisley forces have made significant territorial gains in Hiiraan, yet calls for stronger federal backing remain largely unmet.
