MOGADISHU (Kaab TV) – A tit-for-tat conflict is unfolding between Somalia’s Youth and Sports Minister, Mohamed Abdukadir Ali, and the leadership of the Somali Olympic Committee (SOC).
On 3 November, the Ministry of Youth and Sports announced that it had filed a legal case with the Office of the Attorney General against several members of SOC.
The move came a day after Minister Ali suspended the Chairperson and Secretary of the Somali Olympic Committee, Mr. Ahmed Abdi Hassan Wataac and Secretary Mohamed Abdow Haji, citing allegations that they had engaged in conduct violating the country’s sports regulations, ethical standards, and administrative laws.
“The Minister of Youth and Sports of Somalia has suspended the Chairperson and Secretary of the Somali Olympic Committee (SOC), Mr. Ahmed Abdi Hassan Wataac and Secretary Mohamed Abdow Xaaji, after they were found to have engaged in conduct violating the country’s sports regulations, ethical standards, and administrative laws,” said a statement released by the ministry.
Both Wataac and Haji have denied the allegations and emphasized their independence from the ministry.
Mr. Wataac told local media that the minister had illegally transferred the ministry’s properties for auction without due process.
“Now the minister, who is connected to the Office of the President, is using his power to seize the Somali Olympic Committee headquarters building,” Mr. Wataac added.
According to sources, the conflict began when Minister Ali attempted to exert control over the Olympic Committee, including decisions on overseas travel for athletes and officials.
Insiders are saying that some government officials have used overseas trips as opportunities for human trafficking, and Somalia’s sports sector has not been immune from such scandals.
The dispute shows no signs of ending soon. Minister Ali is considered influential due to his marriage to President Hassan Sheikh’s niece, Mrs. Hinda Ulusow, who also serves as Chief Protocol Officer at Villa Somalia.
At the same time, Mr. Ahmed Abdi Hassan Wataac maintains strong clan connection within Mogadishu, further complicating the standoff.