Somalia Dismisses Former Opposition Figure from Immigration Post After Four Months
Somalia’s Council of Ministers has removed Mustafa Dhuxulow as head of the Immigration and Citizenship Authority and appointed Hussein Khaasim Yusuf as his replacement. The cabinet also passed a general amnesty law and promoted a new ambassador.
The federal cabinet of Somalia has dismissed Mustafa Duhulow from his role as Director General of the Immigration and Citizenship Authority, replacing him with Hussein Khaasim Yusuf.
The decision came during an extraordinary meeting chaired by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, following a formal proposal from the Ministry of Internal Security.
Duhulow had been appointed to the position on December 12, 2024. Before joining the government, he was known as a political opponent who had openly criticised President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s administration. Some political analysts viewed his earlier appointment as an effort to neutralise dissent by bringing a critic into the executive branch. His removal, which took effect immediately, was announced without an official explanation.
The newly appointed director, Hussein Khaasim Yusuf, is expected to assume his duties without delay.
Beyond the immigration leadership change, the cabinet reviewed several national security matters. Ministers received briefings on ongoing military campaigns aimed at eliminating violent extremist groups operating in the country. Environmental issues were also discussed, including a national tree planting initiative.
In a separate move, the Council of Ministers approved a General Amnesty Law submitted by the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. The law is expected to encourage defections from armed groups and promote reconciliation.
Finally, the cabinet promoted Nur Mahmoud Sheikh to the rank of ambassador, acting on a recommendation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His next diplomatic posting has not yet been announced.
