General Sheegow Ahmed Ali, a senior officer in Somalia’s military, has passed away after spending several days in a hospital while in detention. His death has prompted strong calls for an immediate independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his passing.

The general was arrested on August 19, 2023, following a brief armed clash between forces loyal to him and those of the Somali government. After the confrontation, he was detained alongside some of his loyal troops.

His family confirmed that he died from complications related to internal organ failure, as diagnosed by doctors overseeing his condition. Speaking to Dawan media, some family members stated that they repeatedly requested better medical care for the general, but were met with reluctance and delays from government officials.

Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo sent condolences to the general’s family and called on President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to immediately launch a formal investigation into the general’s death.

Former Transitional Federal Government President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed also highlighted General Sheegow’s critical role in the military operations that expelled Al-Shabaab from large parts of the Lower and Middle Shabelle regions.