MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s outgoing intelligence chief, Abdullahi Mohamed Ali Sanbalolshe, is planning to join the opposition after his abrupt dismissal on Sunday, a pro-government elder said on Monday, cautioning him against taking such a step.
Sanbalolshe was replaced by Mahad Salad, a move that came weeks after the outgoing spy chief warned President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud that his removal would be perceived as a punitive measure for alleged failures in office.
His dismissal has sparked backlash, particularly among his clan, which he mobilized extensively in the fight against Al-Shabaab. Under his leadership, clan militias suffered heavy casualties in prolonged battles with the insurgents, including a devastating loss last month that left hundreds dead.
Analysts say Sanbalolshe’s dismissal risks alienating key allies in the counterterrorism campaign, as it disregards his and his clan’s sacrifices in fighting the militant group.
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