The Second Deputy Commander of the Somali Police Force, General Abdalla Abdalla, has warned of the security implications that could stem from the withdrawal of Ugandan troops from Somalia, stating that national security forces are not yet fully prepared to assume sole responsibility for all security duties previously supported by Ugandan forces.
In a statement published on his official platforms, General Abdalla noted that the country faces a security threat that cannot be understated, emphasizing that the drawdown of the Ugandan People’s Defence Force (UPDF) could create a security vacuum threatening the security of the capital, Mogadishu.
The statement read: ‘The country faces a security threat that cannot be understated. The exit of the UPDF will cause a security vacuum and jeopardize the security of the capital; operationally, our forces have not been adequately prepared to shoulder this mandate.’
This warning comes as Uganda has initiated the drawdown of select military contingents deployed in Somalia, which have long formed a key element of security support operations and the campaign against Al-Shabaab.
The Ugandan government stated that it has commenced the repatriation of troops deployed under bilateral agreements between the two nations, with the drawdown plan forming part of broader adjustments governing Ugandan force posture in Somalia.
Concurrently, the Federal Government of Somalia clarified that the departure of troops deployed under bilateral arrangements does not signify a complete withdrawal of all Ugandan forces from the country, as UPDF contingents operating within the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) remain deployed.
Ugandan forces have long played a central role in securing Mogadishu and providing operational support to Somali security forces engaged against Al-Shabaab.
Consequently, their drawdown raises critical questions regarding which forces will assume control of vacated outposts and strategic bases, and whether Somali forces possess adequate equipment, training, and operational support.
Security transition assessments highlight that structured planning remains imperative to prevent armed insurgent groups from exploiting security vacuums created by the drawdown of foreign contingents.
General Abdalla’s warning also raises questions concerning the operational readiness of Somali security forces and the government’s strategic roadmap for assuming full national defense responsibilities.
The federal government previously stated its objective for national security forces to progressively assume security responsibilities, supported by the AUSSOM mission.
It remains vital for the government to detail the specifics of the transition roadmap, particularly regarding security posture in Mogadishu and other operational sectors vacated by Ugandan troops.
To date, no verified operational reports indicate that the drawdown of Ugandan forces has resulted in an immediate security breach within the capital; however, the explicit warning issued by the Deputy Police Commander underscores deep-seated concerns regarding potential vulnerabilities during the security transition.