Somalia: Army Chief General Odowaa Yusuf Rageh to Resign Amid Escalating Al-Shabaab Threat
Leadership Crisis Hits Somali National Army
In a significant development within Somalia's security apparatus, General Odowaa Yusuf Rageh, the Chief of Defence Forces of the Somali National Army (SNA), has formally expressed his intention to resign. This move comes during a critical juncture in the country's long-standing war against the Al-Shabaab insurgency.
Official Communication with the Presidency
Multiple credible sources confirm that General Odowaa has submitted a resignation letter to Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud. His request to vacate the highest military post within the SNA comes as government forces suffer growing operational setbacks in their counter-insurgency campaign against the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab.
Strategic Setback: Loss of Adan Yabaal
One of the most notable recent setbacks occurred in Adan Yabaal, a strategically significant town in Middle Shabelle. The town was lost to Al-Shabaab militants, revealing operational vulnerabilities within the Somali military command structure. The situation was dire enough to warrant a United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) airstrike in support of Somali forces. This highlights the fragility of national defence capabilities in the face of mounting insurgent offensives.
Impending Military Reshuffle
In response to the growing insecurity, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is reportedly preparing to conduct a comprehensive reshuffle within the military’s top leadership. The objective is to enhance coordination, improve response times, and reinvigorate efforts to dismantle Al-Shabaab networks that are regaining territory and escalating attacks across multiple regions.
General Odowaa's Return and Abrupt Exit
General Odowaa Yusuf Rageh had only recently rejoined the military leadership in November 2024, after a two-year hiatus. Previously replaced by General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhyiddin, Odowaa was recalled to inject fresh energy and experienced oversight into the campaign against Al-Shabaab. His potential departure now, merely months into his renewed term, poses a significant leadership vacuum at a time of heightened insecurity.
Implications of a Leadership Vacuum
Should the resignation be accepted, it could deal a substantial blow to the cohesion and morale of the Somali National Army. A leadership transition at such a critical moment is expected to affect the army’s organisational efficiency, strategic continuity, and tactical readiness. The struggle to recapture lost territories and to maintain a consistent counter-insurgency trajectory will likely intensify.
Political Context and Federal-State Consultations
The crisis within the military command comes as President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud hosts a series of high-stakes consultations with regional leaders. Delegations from South West, Hirshabelle, and Galmudug federal member states have arrived at Villa Somalia for emergency dialogue. These talks, initiated by the states themselves, follow mounting frustrations over the military’s inability to hold and secure reclaimed territories.
National Consultative Council Meeting Scheduled
In a broader strategic move, President Mohamud has scheduled a National Consultative Council meeting for next week. The agenda will focus heavily on security reform, transition strategies for local forces, and enhanced cooperation in the fight against Al-Shabaab. The federal government aims to eventually shift primary security responsibilities to regional and local actors, supported by national and international partners.
Conclusion: Uncertain Future for Somalia's Security Strategy
The anticipated resignation of General Odowaa Yusuf Rageh comes at a time when Somalia is grappling with a resurgent Al-Shabaab and a visibly strained military command. As leadership changes loom and insurgent threats mount, the Somali government faces immense pressure to implement swift and effective reforms. Whether the impending reshuffle can stabilise the military and restore momentum in the anti-Al-Shabaab campaign remains to be seen.
SOURCES: Garowe Online, OSINT