Mogadishu, Somalia – SONNA – A significant administrative transition took place in Somalia’s capital today as Mr. Saleh Ahmed Jama, the Acting Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia, officially presided over the handover of duties to the new Governor of Banadir Region and Mayor of Mogadishu, Mr. Hassan Mohamed Hussein, widely known as “Muungaab.” The ceremony also formally acknowledged the service of the outgoing Governor, Mr. Mohamed Ahmed Amiir.
The dual role of the Banadir Governor as also the Mayor of Mogadishu renders this position exceptionally crucial for the governance, security, and development of Somalia’s bustling capital city. The handover event, held in Mogadishu, symbolizes a pivotal moment in the ongoing administrative reforms within the Federal Government.
Addressing the attendees and the new leadership, Deputy Prime Minister Jama delivered a powerful statement on the government’s long-term vision for local governance in Mogadishu. “We are committed to returning the mandate of the people to the Somali people living in the capital city of Mogadishu, so that they can elect their leaders,” he affirmed. This declaration signals a firm intention towards decentralization and the establishment of democratic local elections within the capital, a development of considerable political significance for Somalia’s evolving governance structure.
Mr. Saleh urged the incoming Governor, Mr. Hassan Mohamed Hussein “Muungaab,” to approach his new responsibilities with unwavering integrity and honesty. The Deputy Prime Minister also laid out key priorities for the new administration, calling upon Governor Muungaab to vigorously pursue efforts aimed at enhancing security, improving urban cleanliness and aesthetics, and bolstering essential social services across Mogadishu. These directives directly address some of the most pressing challenges facing the rapidly urbanizing capital, which continues its recovery and reconstruction efforts.
The Deputy Prime Minister extended his gratitude to the former Governor of Banadir Region, Mr. Mohamed Ahmed Amiir, for his dedicated service and the work accomplished during his tenure. The peaceful and organized transition of power is a positive reflection of strengthening institutional practices within Somalia’s federal system. The new administration faces the critical task of building upon previous efforts while navigating the complex demands of metropolitan governance, all while working towards the stated goal of enabling the residents of Mogadishu to directly choose their municipal leadership.
