MOGADISHU (Somaliguardian) – Somalia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Salah Ahmed Jama, on Thursday dismissed a motion being prepared by some members of parliament to oust the government of Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, while vehemently denying allegations of public land grabbing by authorities.
Speaking to reporters in the capital, Mogadishu, Jama downplayed the significance of the parliamentary motion, emphasizing that the government’s focus remains on addressing pressing national challenges.
“We have no fear over the motion, but we are concerned about how we will combat the Kharijites [Al-Shabaab], strengthen security, tackle climate change, save lives and livestock from droughts, and raise public awareness,” Jama stated.
The Deputy Prime Minister also refuted mounting accusations that government officials are involved in the illicit sale of public land to wealthy businessmen for personal gain. He asserted that the administration has instead prioritized relocating internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the capital.
When questioned about the government’s apparent silence regarding Puntland’s security operations against ISIS militants in the region, Jama clarified that Prime Minister Barre had already publicly addressed the issue. He reiterated the federal government’s solidarity with Puntland forces in their fight against militants.
The remarks come amid growing political tensions and public scrutiny over the government’s handling of security, corruption, and environmental challenges. Critics argue that the administration has been slow to address systemic issues, while supporters maintain that the government is making steady progress under difficult circumstances.
