Sharif Demands Independent Probe into Federal Army’s Heavy Losses Near Buurhakaba

MOGADISHU (WDN) — Former Somali President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed has called for an independent investigation into the heavy losses reportedly suffered by federal forces near Buurhakaba, accusing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of undermining military professionalism through political interference and questionable promotion practices.

In a statement addressing the recent fighting in Bay region, Sharif questioned the quality of military planning, intelligence, operational preparedness and the independence of the army’s command. He argued that repeated battlefield losses demanded accountability rather than official assurances.

Sharif’s Claims and Demands

Sharif said the recurring losses raised serious questions about how military operations were planned and conducted.

“The repeated, large-scale losses suffered by the military have raised questions about the quality of planning, intelligence, operational preparedness and the independence of the military command,” he said.

He accused President Hassan Sheikh of failing to heed the advice of experienced commanders familiar with combat operations and local terrain. He also criticized the handling of military promotions and soldiers’ welfare, saying these practices had damaged morale.

The criticism comes amid allegations that young officers linked to the president’s clan have been promoted to senior positions despite lacking adequate operational experience or professional training. Sharif’s statement, as provided, does not establish specific cases or independently document the alleged promotion practices.

“The Somali National Army is the most precious asset the nation possesses. The life of a Somali soldier cannot be gambled with or sacrificed to advance political ambitions and personal interests,” Sharif said.

He outlined four priorities:

Independent investigation: Determine the causes of repeated military losses and identify responsibility for any negligence or orders that disregarded professional military advice.

Protection of military command : Shield operational decisions from political interference.

Support for soldiers and families : Establish a national programme for wounded personnel and families of soldiers killed in service, including parents and orphans, and restore eligible benefits previously withheld.

Accountability: Take appropriate action against commanders or officials found responsible for negligence or improper decisions.

Analysis: The Stakes for Somalia’s Military

Sharif’s intervention highlights a broader institutional question: whether Somalia’s military leadership and promotion system consistently prioritize professional competence over political and clan considerations.

In counterinsurgency operations, effective leadership depends on reliable intelligence, realistic planning, knowledge of the terrain and clear command structures. When experienced officers believe promotions are unfair or their advice is disregarded, confidence within the ranks can suffer. If political interference compromises operational decisions, the consequences can extend to troop safety and mission effectiveness.

These are serious risks, but determining whether they contributed to the reported losses near Buurhakaba requires evidence. The available material does not establish the precise casualty figures, the operational circumstances of the fighting or the extent to which command decisions contributed to the outcome.

An independent investigation could clarify whether intelligence failures, inadequate preparation or flawed orders played a role. It could also examine the military promotion process and determine whether appointments complied with professional standards.

The findings would matter beyond this single battle. Transparent procedures and accountability can strengthen confidence among soldiers and the public, while credible evidence of misconduct—if established—would provide grounds for corrective action.

The central question is whether the reported losses resulted from the unavoidable risks of combat or from preventable failures in planning and leadership. A transparent investigation is the clearest way to establish the facts and determine responsibility.

Attribution notes: Sharif’s accusations and demands are presented as claims made in his statement. The assessment of military and institutional risks is analysis, not a finding that political interference or improper promotions caused the reported losses.

WardheerNews