Caaqil News - The Council of Ministers of the Federal Government of Somalia is convening an emergency meeting today, following an urgent summons issued to all cabinet members last night. The meeting, which departs from the Council’s regular Thursday schedule, is taking place ahead of the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage and Eid al-Adha holiday, during which ministers are expected to be on official leave.
Sources close to the Office of the Prime Minister have confirmed that the session’s agenda will include a significant security leadership change. Chief among the anticipated decisions is the reappointment of Mahad Mohamed Salad as the new Director General of the National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA). Salad, who previously held the same position, is widely expected to replace the current NISA head, Abdullahi Mohamed Ali (Sanbaloolshe), in what would mark a key shift in the government’s security leadership.
Emergency Cabinet Meeting Called Ahead of Eid Holiday
According to insiders within the government, the emergency cabinet meeting was triggered by the need to finalize key decisions before the cabinet enters recess for Eid al-Adha and the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Traditionally, the Council of Ministers meets on Thursdays. However, this week’s session was brought forward to ensure quorum and decisiveness before cabinet members begin their holiday observances.
Last night, all ministers received a formal text message instructing them to attend an “urgent and mandatory” meeting, underscoring the gravity of the matters at hand. With the term of the current administration entering its final stages, today’s cabinet meeting could be one of the last high-level gatherings before the government enters a more transitional phase.
Mahad Salad’s Likely Return to NISA
Multiple sources within the Somali government have disclosed that Mahad Salad is the frontrunner for reappointment as Director of NISA. Salad previously served in the same capacity during President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s earlier administration (2012–2017). He is a seasoned political actor with close ties to President Hassan Sheikh, and has played a prominent role in national security and intelligence affairs.
The current NISA director, Abdullahi Mohamed Ali, has reportedly been informed that his tenure is ending. Internal communication from high-level officials has indicated that Sanbaloolshe should prepare to hand over the leadership of the intelligence agency in the coming days.
This potential leadership change comes at a critical juncture for Somalia’s internal security apparatus. Amid persistent threats from al-Shabaab and increasing political tensions from opposition factions, the government appears determined to consolidate security leadership and renew its focus on intelligence-led governance.
Government Looks to Preempt Opposition Maneuvers
Analysts suggest that the reappointment of Mahad Salad may be part of a broader strategy by President Hassan Sheikh’s administration to reinforce political stability and mitigate risks of political unrest. As the government approaches the end of its term, opposition groups have grown more vocal and organized, calling for greater transparency and accusing the administration of centralizing power ahead of upcoming elections.
Some critics view the possible return of Mahad Salad to NISA as a political maneuver designed to secure institutional control during a potentially turbulent electoral season. However, supporters argue that Salad’s past performance, insider knowledge, and loyalty to the president make him a natural choice to lead Somalia’s embattled intelligence services.
The move is seen as a preventive measure against anticipated resistance from political rivals, who may attempt to capitalize on the administration’s weakened position as the electoral period approaches. Reinstalling a trusted figure at the helm of the intelligence agency could help the government respond more swiftly and effectively to political crises and security threats alike.
Shifting Security Priorities Before the End of Term
If confirmed, Mahad Salad’s appointment will signal a major shift in the government’s security policy heading into the final phase of its term. Salad is known for his hands-on approach to intelligence coordination, counterterrorism strategy, and close collaboration with foreign partners, especially in the fight against al-Shabaab.
His return could also pave the way for broader reforms within NISA and Somalia’s wider security sector. According to sources familiar with internal government discussions, there are plans underway to restructure leadership in other key security institutions, including the Somali Police Force, military intelligence units, and judiciary-related security services.
President Hassan Sheikh’s administration has prioritized security since returning to power in 2022, framing its governance agenda around the themes of “strong state institutions and a secure Somalia.” Replacing security chiefs and tightening control over strategic institutions is likely intended to solidify those objectives ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Ministerial Attendance Critical Amid Tight Deadlines
Today’s emergency cabinet meeting also holds procedural significance, as the participation of key ministers is required to approve major appointments and policy resolutions. With many ministers preparing for travel to Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage, and others spending Eid al-Adha with their families, this session may be the last opportunity for the government to implement strategic changes with full ministerial support.
Some observers have pointed out the symbolic importance of the timing. Making such an announcement before Eid could send a message of renewed strength and resolve, both domestically and to Somalia’s international partners, many of whom remain heavily invested in the country's stabilization process.
Who Is Mahad Mohamed Salad?
Mahad Salad is a veteran Somali politician and intelligence strategist. He has previously served as a member of parliament, deputy minister, and director of NISA. He is known for his staunch support of President Hassan Sheikh and played a pivotal role in the president’s 2022 election campaign, where he helped mobilize political support and oversaw intelligence coordination.
Salad’s earlier tenure at NISA was marked by a more assertive and proactive intelligence posture, particularly in efforts to infiltrate al-Shabaab cells and dismantle local extremist networks. His critics, however, have accused him of politicizing the intelligence agency, claiming he used the institution to target rivals and suppress dissent.
Despite the controversy, many within the ruling party consider him a loyal and capable operative with the skills necessary to navigate the complex threats Somalia currently faces. His return to NISA, if confirmed, is expected to bring both continuity and renewed energy to the agency.
Potential Reactions from the Opposition and International Partners
While the federal government views Salad’s reappointment as a stabilizing move, opposition leaders have already begun voicing concerns. Some argue that such a high-profile security appointment, so close to the end of the administration’s term, lacks legitimacy and could further politicize the security sector.
Others fear that bringing back a politically aligned intelligence chief may embolden the government to suppress criticism and monitor political opponents under the guise of national security.
International observers will also be watching closely. NISA has been a central partner to various foreign intelligence and military agencies, particularly those from the United States, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. Maintaining a capable and cooperative leadership within the agency is crucial for continued support and coordination with foreign allies.
Looking Ahead: Final Stretch of President Hassan Sheikh’s Term
As the administration enters the final stretch of its term, today’s decisions are likely to shape Somalia’s political and security environment well beyond the current government’s mandate. Whether Mahad Salad’s return will lead to enhanced stability or increased political friction remains to be seen.
What is clear, however, is that Somalia is at a critical juncture. With elections on the horizon, the threat of terrorism ever-present, and political tensions simmering beneath the surface, the coming months will test the resilience of Somali institutions and the resolve of its leaders.
The cabinet’s ability to act decisively during this period — including in today’s emergency meeting — may determine how smoothly the country navigates this challenging transition.
