MOGADISHU, Somalia – On March 18, 2025, Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud made a high-profile visit to the frontlines of the war against Al-Shabab, the Al-Qaeda-linked militant group that has terrorized the nation for over a decade.
His presence in the war zones was celebrated by supporters as a bold act of leadership, showcasing his determination to confront terrorism head-on. Yet, the move has sparked intense scrutiny, with critics questioning whether the President’s actions are a genuine effort to secure Somalia’s future or a carefully orchestrated political performance.
The debate took a dramatic turn when the President survived a powerful explosion on his way to the airport—an assassination attempt claimed and carried out by Al-Shabab.
The attack highlighted the persistent threat posed by the militant group, which has recently intensified its operations, bringing violence closer to Mogadishu and raising fears of a Taliban-style collapse of the Somali state. Amid this backdrop, President Hassan’s frontline visit has become a lightning rod for both praise and skepticism.
A Leader in the Trenches or a Master of Optics?
Supporters of President Hassan have lauded his frontline visit as a courageous and symbolic gesture, demonstrating his willingness to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with soldiers in the fight against Al-Shabab.
“This is the kind of leadership Somalia needs—bold, decisive, and unflinching,” said a senior government official. “The President’s presence on the frontlines sends a powerful message to both the enemy and the Somali people: we will not back down.”
However, critics argue that the visit was less about military strategy and more about political theater. They point to the absence of other high-ranking officials and the carefully curated media coverage as evidence of a calculated effort to bolster the President’s image.
“This is not leadership; it’s a publicity stunt,” said an opposition figure. “The President is using the war to position himself as the indispensable savior of Somalia, while sidelining broader political and institutional reforms.”
A Well-Calculated Tool for Donor Diplomacy?
Beyond the domestic implications, some analysts suggest that President Hassan’s actions are aimed at securing continued support from the international community.
Somalia relies heavily on foreign aid and military assistance to combat Al-Shabab, and the President’s high-visibility presence on the frontlines may be an attempt to reassure donors of his commitment to the fight.
“This is a performance for the international audience,” said one analyst. “By portraying himself as a fearless leader, he’s signaling to donors that their investments are in safe hands.”
Critics, however, warn that this approach risks prioritizing short-term gains over long-term stability. They argue that the focus on military operations, without addressing underlying political and governance challenges, could undermine efforts to build a sustainable peace.
“The international community must ensure that its support is tied to tangible progress, not just symbolic gestures,” said a civil society activist. “Otherwise, we risk repeating the mistakes of the past.”
The Specter of a Taliban-Style Takeover?
The recent surge in Al-Shabab’s attacks has reignited fears that Somalia could follow the path of Afghanistan, where the Taliban seized power following the withdrawal of international forces.
Analysts warn that Somalia’s weak institutions, political divisions, and reliance on external support make it vulnerable to a similar scenario. “The parallels are alarming,” said a security expert. “Without urgent action to strengthen governance and national unity, Somalia could face a catastrophic collapse.”
Some have called for the establishment of a transitional government of national unity, led by a neutral figure, to navigate the country through this precarious period.
They argue that such a move could help bridge political divides and create a more cohesive strategy for addressing both the security and governance challenges facing Somalia. “President Hassan must prioritize the nation over his own political ambitions,” said a political analyst. “The stakes are too high for anything less.”
A Delicate Balancing Act Needed in Somalia?
President Hassan’s frontline visit has become a defining moment in his presidency, with the potential to shape his legacy as either a transformative leader or a political opportunist.
While his supporters see a leader willing to take risks for the sake of his country, his critics see a politician adept at leveraging crises for personal and political gain.
As Somalia stands at a crossroads, the international community faces a delicate balancing act. Increased support for the fight against Al-Shabab is crucial, but it must be accompanied by robust oversight and a focus on long-term stability.
Meanwhile, Somalia’s leaders must rise above personal ambitions and prioritize the collective good, lest the country succumb to the very forces it seeks to defeat.
In the end, the war against Al-Shabab is not just a military struggle; it is a test of Somalia’s political will and its commitment to building a future defined by peace, unity, and resilience.
Whether President Hassan’s actions are a step toward that future or a diversion from it remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the choices made today will echo far beyond the frontlines.
