Mogadishu (KAAB TV) — Former Minister of Petroleum and Minerals, Abdirisaaq Omar Mohamed, has issued a scathing critique of the Somali federal government, accusing it of gross negligence in handling diplomatic appointments and failing to properly vet foreign envoys being dispatched to Somalia.
In a statement broadcast via his official social media channels, Abdirisaaq expressed outrage over what he described as a “national disgrace” and a glaring example of weak governance. He asserted that the government had not fulfilled its most basic responsibility—ensuring that foreign diplomats entering the country are thoroughly vetted and aligned with Somalia’s national interests.
“This is a major scandal and a national shame. When a government cannot carry out the simple task of verifying the identity and background of diplomats sent to Somalia, it opens the door to dealings with individuals whose intentions may be questionable. This is not just a mistake—it is stupidity, pure and simple,” Abdirisaaq declared.
His remarks come amid an escalating diplomatic controversy involving foreign representatives allegedly pursuing agendas at odds with Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial unity. Though the former minister did not name specific individuals, his comments are widely believed to reference the recent diplomatic row between Somalia and Ethiopia.
At the heart of the controversy is the Ethiopian government’s appointment of an ambassador to Somalia, who has reportedly voiced support for the secession of Somaliland from the rest of Somalia. This appointment follows a highly contentious maritime access agreement signed between Ethiopia and Somaliland, an autonomous region whose claim to independence has never been internationally recognized.
The former minister’s statement triggered widespread debate across social media platforms. Many citizens and commentators echoed his concerns, calling the federal government’s actions irresponsible and a threat to national dignity. Others demanded an official response from the government to clarify its position and explain how such an oversight could have occurred.
While the Somali government has yet to issue a formal statement addressing the allegations, the situation has intensified public scrutiny of its foreign policy procedures and diplomatic engagements. The incident has further raised concerns about how external powers may be attempting to exploit Somalia’s internal divisions and fragile governance structures for strategic gain.
This latest development underscores growing anxieties within Somalia about its ability to safeguard national interests in the face of regional pressures and complex geopolitical dynamics.