MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is poised to reappoint Mahad Salad as director of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), a year after dismissing him, Caasimada Online news website reported on Sunday.
Salad, a close political ally of the president and a senior figure within the ruling party, has reportedly regained the confidence of both President Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, paving the way for his return to the country’s top intelligence post.
The decision comes despite initial objections from the incumbent NISA chief, Abdullahi Mohamed Ali (Sanbalolshe), who voiced concern to the president that his removal could damage his political standing and cast a shadow over his performance. Multiple meetings have since been held between Salad and Sanbalolshe to ensure a smooth transition and defuse tensions.
The impending leadership change at NISA has stirred political unease, particularly as Somalia continues to face growing security threats, including a resurgence of al Shabaab attacks in Mogadishu and the southern regions.
Salad was previously dismissed following widespread criticism over intelligence failures, particularly his agency’s inability to thwart militant offensives targeting military installations. His reappointment has raised eyebrows, with critics warning it could signal a return to politically motivated appointments that have hampered institutional effectiveness in the past.
President Mohamud has faced persistent allegations of appointing key security officials based on personal loyalty or foreign influence, often sidelining merit-based selection processes. Analysts argue such practices have weakened government accountability, fostered corruption, and undermined public trust.
Salad’s reinstatement follows a similar move earlier this year when Mohamud reappointed Odowaa Yusuf Rageh as army chief, several years after dismissing him. Critics say the return of previously ousted security leaders reflects a cycle of recycled leadership that has yielded limited security gains.
As the country grapples with escalating militant threats, observers say the leadership shuffle at NISA could either reinvigorate Somalia’s counterterrorism efforts—or further expose institutional vulnerabilities if past failures repeat.
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