Somalia: Somali PM Urges Youth to Join National Defense and Embrace Democratic Transition

Mogadishu, Somalia — Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre urged the youth to defend their nation. He stated this is both a patriotic duty and a religious obligation.

"I am here tonight to deliver a message to Somali youth," he said. "Defending our country is a collective duty that none of us should neglect. We must all stand together in unity."

The Prime Minister highlighted achievements of his administration, DanQaran. He stressed its commitment to eliminating the Al-Shabaab insurgency. He also mentioned plans for one-person, one-vote democratic elections.

He noted that these upcoming elections would restore public power after over 56 years without full representation. The elections are a turning point for Somali youth to shape their country's future.

His remarks followed a tragic event on Sunday morning. Dozens of youths waiting outside a military camp were killed in an Al-Shabaab suicide bombing in Mogadishu. The government faced criticism for neglecting the safety of these youths and putting their lives at risk by gathering them in an open area along a highway.