Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The President of the Federal Government of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has made crucial changes in the leadership of the Somali Armed Forces.

The President has appointed Brigadier General Madey Nurey Sheikh as the Deputy Commander of the Somali National Army.

General Dayah Abdi Abdulle has also been promoted to the rank of Major General, and he will be the Commander of the Land Forces.

These changes are in accordance with the provisions of Armed Forces Act 15.

“In line with the provisions Act No. 15 of the Armed Forces, the president has announced changes in the Somali National Army. These changes are effective as of today, Monday, September 18, 2023,” the statement from Villa Somalia read.

President Hassan underlined the collective responsibility by all Somali citizens, the public, and the armed forces in the ongoing efforts to liberate the country from terrorists like Al-Shabaab.

He appreciated the efforts made by the Somali Armed Forces and the Somali people in the operations against Al-Shabaab militants to achieve a secure and stable nation, free from the influence of radical elements.

Dayah Abdi Abdulle assumes the role of Commander of the Land Forces, taking over from Brigadier General Ahmed Aden Ali, who has been holding the position since June last year.

Brigadier General Madey Nurey Sheikh will replace Abbas Amin as the Deputy Commander of the Somali National Army.

These changes come at a time when Somalia intensified its operations against Al-Shabaab in parts of Hiiraan, Galgadud, and Mudug regions.

It follows a series of deadly Al-Shabaab attacks on the Somali National Army bases in Cowsweyne, El-Lahelay, and Run Nirgod, which have killed dozens of SNA soldiers.

These attacks have sparked public anger and calls for the president to take action against the Minister of Defence and Army chiefs who have been accused of being responsible for the military failures