The Somaliland President, Muse Bihi Abdi has replaced two ministers who had been allegedly accused of corruption in a major reshuffle.
The two ministers, Abdirahman Abdillahi Farah “Guri Barwaaqo” formerly of Information ministry and Isse Ahmed Yusuf, ex-defense minister, who were recently indicted by the Attorney General on alleged charges of corruption have been sacked.
However, as of now there has not been a case brought before court and neither man has been placed under arrest.
Abdirahman Abdillahi “Guri Barwaaqo” has been a controversial minister who during his brief tenure had managed to alienate most of the independent media in Somaliland, the staff of the ministry and members of the Somaliland communities with his book “Sooyaal”.
A no nonsense character with strong views who had enjoyed the support of President Muse Bihi, has, it would seem, run out of luck.
On the other hand, Isse Ahmed Yusuf Abdulle, the ex-defense minister was a newcomer to the Somaliland political arena, and during his tenure has managed to improve the stature of the ministry, including the historic visit my the UK Defence Secretary, Gavin Williamson.
However, despite several adept and victorious maneuvers on the eastern border of Somaliland during his tenure, the formation of the rag-tag militia led by the turncoat, Carre in Qardho, seems to have put paid to his time in office. It would not be a surprise to see this capable minister back in government once the allegations of corruption are resolved.
Other notable moves, include Liban Yusuf Osman & Shermarke Gelle from the Foreign ministry & the Civil Service Commission respectively. Liban Yusuf had been very active in the Foreign Office, and was recently on a visit to Egypt. So, his move to the Health ministry would seem to be a possible promotion to replace the current minister, Dr. Hassan Ismail, who is in poor health and recently had a mini-stroke.
Shermarke Gelle did a splendid job at the Civil Service Commission, so it would it seem his promotion to Deputy Representative in Kenya, is to gain international experience.
A notable departure, is Ayanle Salad Dirie, formerly of the Somaliland Liaison Office in Addis Ababa and Nairobi. Ayanle was a always a competent and welcome face of Somaliland during his time in Ethiopia.
One notable return, Farhan Haybe former Aviation minister as the new Civil Service chair.
President Muse Bihi Abdi also made some recent changes to the Military and Security positions. A new Custodial Corps chief, a new Army Chief of Staff, a new Presidential Guard chief, and an old head back at the Security Service.
Finally, the error prone and naive Somaliland representative in the United Arab Emirates, Hasan Hirad Yasin, has been relieved of his duties.
