Mogadishu, SOMALIA – An attempt by the Somali Police Force to evict hundreds of families occupying the Fire Department’s “Dabdamiska” headquarters in the Seybiyano area of Mogadishu has shed light on the intricate interplay of clan dynamics and the challenges faced by the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) in enforcing the rule of law. The squatters, belonging to the Sacad/Habargidir subclan of the Hawiye clan family, responded to the eviction order with threats and calls for their clan militias to abandon their posts and come to their defense, exposing the deep-rooted influence of clan loyalties on Somali politics and security.
The situation took an unexpected turn when Senator Abdi Hassan Awale “Qeybiid,” a former warlord, announced today that an agreement had been reached with the government, urging the squatters to remain calm. While the details of the agreement remain undisclosed, the incident has exposed the fragility of the FGS’s control and its reliance on the support of powerful clan actors.
The Enduring Power of Clan Loyalties in Somali Politics and Security
The Sacad/Habargidir subclan has a long history of political and military influence in Mogadishu, often challenging the authority of the central government. The swift mobilization of clan militias in response to the eviction order highlights the enduring power of these traditional networks and their ability to challenge the authority of the state. This reliance on clan militias has been a double-edged sword for the FGS, as these armed groups have played a crucial role in the fight against Al-Shabab but simultaneously undermine the government’s monopoly on the use of force and hinder the establishment of a unified, professional security apparatus.
The incident in Dabdamiska starkly reminds us of the deeply entrenched clan loyalties that continue to shape Somali politics and society. The fact that the squatters were able to mobilize their clan militias so quickly and effectively in response to the government’s eviction order demonstrates the fragility of the FGS’s control over the country and its reliance on the goodwill of powerful clan actors.
The Weakness of the Rule of Law
The squatters’ ability to occupy the Fire Department’s headquarters at Dabdamiska for an extended period without consequence underscores the weakness of the rule of law in Somalia. The government’s struggle to enforce its laws and regulations regarding public land and resources is further compounded by the squatters’ unsubstantiated claims that the government intends to sell the land to the highest bidders. Such claims tap into the deep-seated mistrust of central authorities among many Somalis, stemming from years of conflict, corruption, and political instability.
While the government’s attempt to evict the squatters is legally justified, the apparent intimidation by the threat of clan militia intervention raises questions about its ability to enforce the rule of law and protect public property. The seeming intimidation of the government by the threat of clan militia intervention further undermines its credibility and raises questions about its ability to enforce the rule of law and protect public property.
The Need for Security Sector Reform
The incident in Dabdamiska in Mogadishu emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive security sector reform and governance in Somalia. To address these challenges, the FGS must must prioritize the development of a professional, unified, and accountable security force that is loyal to the state rather than to clan or individual interests. This will require significant investment in training, equipment, and infrastructure, as well as measures to address corruption and promote transparency and accountability within the security forces.
Moreover, the FGS must engage in meaningful dialogue with clan leaders, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to address long-standing grievances and promote reconciliation and unity among Somalia’s diverse communities. This will require a willingness to listen to and address the concerns of marginalized groups and to promote inclusive, participatory governance at all levels.
Finally, the standoff in Dabdamiska serves as a microcosm of the complex challenges facing Somalia as it strives for stability and prosperity. The incident has exposed the deep-rooted clan dynamics and weak rule of law that continue to undermine the country’s progress. Addressing these challenges will require a comprehensive, long-term approach that prioritizes security sector reform, political dialogue and reconciliation, strengthening the rule of law, and economic development and service delivery
