In a decision that marked another low point in the long-running feud between the two top politicians, Somali President Mohamed Farmaajo has dismissed Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble from his duties while corruption allegations against him are being probed.
It was alleged by the RFI broadcaster that Roble’s removal was linked to allegations of land grabbing from the country’s naval forces for his own advantage, which was confirmed in an evening presidential announcement.
According to the presidency, Roble has denied the charge and has attempted to sabotage the continuing investigation into the matter, while other members of the administration would go about their business as usual.
Farmaajo also ordered the suspension of Somali naval commander Brigadier General Cabdixamiid Maxamed Dirir, according to the site, citing a second presidential proclamation published shortly after the first.
Prime Minister Mohamed Hussein Roble accompanied by his deputy and top security officials incl army and police commanders walks into his office amid escalating tension between him and President Farmaajo. pic.twitter.com/o4RY9vRHfs
— Ahmed Abdi Kosar (@AhmedKosar1) December 27, 2021
The presidency and the prime minister’s office traded accusations on Sunday over the delays in national legislative elections, which began on November 1 and were meant to end on December 24.
The president and prime minister have been at odds for several months over a series of matters, including a spat in April over Farmaajo’s decision to extend his fourth term by two years, and the suspension of Roble’s mandate to hold elections in September due to his non-cooperation in the electoral process.
Image Credit: Twitter post
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