Fahad Yasin, former NISA director, criticized President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in a recent interview, signaling potential attempts to regain political influence after a period of instability. His actions raise concerns regarding his intentions, as analysts suggest he is rehabilitating his image while possibly positioning for a future role in Somali leadership, all while initially aiding in the political turmoil during Farmaajo’s presidency.
Former Director of Somalia’s National Intelligence and Security Agency, Fahad Yasin, recently conducted an interview that raised significant eyebrows. In his statements, he criticized President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, depicting a bleak outlook for Somalia’s political situation. This leads to a pressing question: Does Fahad express genuine concern for national stability, or is he primarily seeking to resuscitate his diminished political influence?
Fahad Yasin has accused President Hassan Sheikh of being the first Somali leader to wage warfare in his hometown against an existing government. He forewarned that should Hassan Sheikh not peacefully transfer power at the end of his tenure, he may suffer the same fate he inflicted upon others. Yet this critique appears more as a veiled threat, reflecting Fahad’s ongoing endeavors to maneuver politically and manipulate the government from behind the scenes.
Fahad’s prior role during his tenure raises questions regarding his responsibility in the political instability that beset Somalia. Serving as the right-hand man to former President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, he significantly contributed to power consolidation within the federal government, often undermining federal member states and opposition politicians. His recent remarks must be viewed within a broader context, suggesting a strategy aimed at regaining political control and influence.
Political analysts perceive Fahad Yasin’s recent interview as a calculated attempt to restore his public persona. Once a formidable figure in Farmaajo’s regime, his authority played a considerable role in the political chaos leading to Farmaajo’s exit. Seeking reinvention, Fahad has aligned himself with religious undertones, recently translating a book about the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Nairobi. However, this shift appears more opportunistic than sincere, as evident in his previous affiliations with the Itahad Islamic organization and his ongoing involvement in political discourse.
Fahad Yasin’s trajectory has been consistently linked with foreign financial support, principally from Qatar. He has been instrumental in securing Qatari funds to support Farmaajo’s initiatives, thereby cementing his position of influence. During Hassan Sheikh’s previous presidency, he was sidelined but regained prominence by exerting significant control during Farmaajo’s administration.
Currently, signs imply that Fahad is attempting to reposition himself as a political powerhouse once more. His recent meetings with former Somali officials, presumably to establish alliances, suggests that he might be orchestrating a candidate controlled in a manner akin to Farmaajo, aspiring to reclaim governmental authority.
Aligned with the Beesha Shanaad clan under Somalia’s clan power-sharing framework, Fahad’s rise diverged from traditional political dependence on clan support, employing foreign sponsorship to bolster influence. His access to Qatari funds enabled him to manipulate the political landscape and sway leadership choices.
As speculation mounts around his future actions, it is evident that Fahad Yasin has no intention of exiting Somali politics. His interview implies aspirations that extend beyond a mere advisory role, possibly hinting at a prime ministerial ambition. However, others speculate that he may merely be seeking a candidate who would allow him to maintain his influence.
In the past, Fahad faced accusations of manipulating state institutions for political gain, steering security operations, and orchestrating attacks against opposition, significantly deepening Somalia’s political fractures. Today, despite once wielding considerable power, he finds himself in a precarious position, prompting curiosity about his next steps and whether Somalia will permit a resurgence of his influence. One thing is certain: Fahad Yasin is far from finished in the political arena of Somalia.
Fahad Yasin remains a figure of contention in Somali politics, positioned between past influence and future ambitions. His recent interview appears to serve dual purposes: critiquing current leadership while strategically seeking to reclaim political power. With his roots in foreign sponsorship and established intelligence connections, and facing scrutiny over his previous actions, questions remain regarding Somalia’s resilience against his political maneuvers. The trajectory of his influence amid Somalia’s evolving political landscape will be closely watched.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
