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Forging a future from a failed past? prospects and pitfalls of Somalia’s state-sponsored vigilantism, Ma’awisley

28 Aug 2024

Abdifatah Ismael Tahir

This paper examines the historical and contemporary dynamics of vigilante mobilizations in Somalia. It shows that these mobilizations have repeatedly failed to achieve the desired outcomes, namely quelling insurgencies. The most recent of these mobilizations began in 2022, when the Hawadle clan, refusing to pay taxes and pledge loyalty to Al-Shabaab, launched a significant offensive against the group. Recognizing a potential advantage, the new government, headed by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who succeeded President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, integrated the clan mobilization into its broader strategy of fighting Al-Shabaab and reclaiming territories in south central Somalia from the group. However, as with previous attempts, this approach proved ineffective. Drawing on interviews and media monitoring conducted between June 2022 and August 2024, the paper argues that these failures result from a fundamental misalignment between the traditional ethos and character of clan-based mobilizations and the external pressures exerted on them by contemporary state-making politics. Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the critical need for a dialogue aimed at facilitating a negotiated solution, which it regards as essential for achieving lasting peace and stability. In so doing, the paper contributes to ongoing calls for negotiation and engagement with Al-Shabaab, despite the considerable challenges inherent in such a process.

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