Mogadishu (Sub TV) – Abe Xuseen, a former Somali National Army member under President Siad Barre, has publicly appealed to President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for a personal meeting before his term ends.
In a recent exclusive interview with Sub TV, Abe Xuseen shared his frustrations and life struggles since the fall of the Siad Barre government in 1991.
He expressed feelings of neglect and disappointment, saying that despite his service to Somalia under multiple administrations, he has faced severe hardship and loss.
Abe Xuseen displayed a handwritten message in which he directly addressed President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud.
The note, written in Somali, revealed his deep personal grievances and his desire for recognition and reconciliation. Translated, the message read:
“To the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud,
I wish to meet you before your term ends. If you truly wish to lead this country for many years, please listen to the cries of your people. I served in the army under President Siad Barre’s government. Later, I became part of the administration during President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed’s time. But when you came to power, I was among the people who were displaced from their homes.
If you wish for my prayers and blessings, please come to meet me.”
Abe Xuseen’s situation reflects the broader challenges faced by many former Somali soldiers and civil servants who served under past governments.
Since the collapse of the central government in 1991, many veterans have struggled with poverty, homelessness, and a lack of access to healthcare or pensions.
Despite efforts by successive Somali governments to rebuild the national army and reintegrate veterans, thousands remain marginalized.
Some live in camps for internally displaced persons (IDPs) or rely on public charity to survive.
Abe Xuseen called on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to prioritize the welfare of veterans who once defended the nation.
He urged the government to create programs that provide financial and social support to ex-soldiers, especially those who served during the turbulent years of Somalia’s history.
Observers say his plea is a reminder of the need for inclusive national reconciliation — one that honors the contributions of all Somalis, regardless of their political past.