The Minister of Defense of Federal Republic of Somalia FRS Stated That The Media Has Played an Important Role In The Battle That Continues Against the Khawaarij (Militant groups).

The Minister of Defense of the Federal Republic of Somalia (FRS) S emphasized the crucial role of the media in the ongoing battle against the Khawaarij militant groups. Over the past two years, the government has taken significant steps to modify its approach, addressing not only the ideological aspects but also the financial support behind these groups. The Ministry of Information has played an integral part in these efforts. Although the government was formed two years and a couple of months ago, several steps were taken to modify the approach that had previously been in place against Khawaarij. Indeed, changing the ideology of the whole approach, including the finances that were a significant cause for financing investment in the Khawaarij, and reconfiguring military operations, took a very firm resolution by the people to The Minister of Defense of the Federal Republic of Somalia (FRS) stressed the vital role of the media in the ongoing battle against Khawaarij militant groups. The government has made significant efforts over the past two years to modify its approach, addressing both the ideological and financial aspects of these groups. The Ministry of Information has played an integral part in these endeavors. make things change. The Ministry of Information contributed to all that.

The liberation of the country has been a collective effort by both the Somali people and their government systems. When a nation suffers such a calamity, it is not a duty of specific individuals to engage and eliminate the Khawaarij. It is known that spurious narratives have been circulated, from the claim that they invaded society in the name of Islam and they allegedly worked for the good of people. Time passed by, and finally, it became clear—those are indeed criminals, mafias. Through efforts at exposing their disguise, bit by bit, their real nature was laid bare. The Ministry of Information, along with governmental and private media entities, helped them a lot in bringing them into the limelight.

As the Ministry of Defense, we have worked hard to ensure that the Somali National Army and all branches of the army are committed to the liberation of the country from the Khawaarij. You know where the fight began and where it is now.

The Somali people, who have endured so much suffering, are now embarking on this journey of revival based on liberty, a sense of peace, and respect for the government and its provided services. It is easy to see firsthand how the major cities, provinces, and towns liberated from the Khawaarij now fare. The quality of life they enjoy at the moment speaks to the improvements so far made.

The ideology espoused by the Khawaarij has been considerably discredited, and it is well known that our scholars and intellectuals have articulated with precision the religious and societal detriments related to their beliefs. Considerable gains have been made in this respect. Moreover, their financial strength has been subject to significant constraints. It is well known that they used to accumulate millions of dollars extorting from the Somali people in cash or livestock. Their ability to sustain such activities has been significantly curtailed, and they no longer hold large swaths of territories from which they can draw resources.

As a government, we are proud that for the first time since the dawn of the Third Republic, we have been able to liberate large areas from the Khawaarij. We are also the first government to link all regions by building roads and institute a holistic strategy combining ideological, economic, and military aspects. In that regard, we extend our greatest appreciation to the people of Somalia, who indeed have stood with us side by side and actively taken part in this fight.

Media has played a big role in raising consciousness and mobilizing the people. Be it through poetry, music, or direct messages, media has been able to alert the consciousness of the Somalis. Today, individuals who are based in the rural areas and who have no financial or personal gains to be achieved from taking up arms are ready and willing to fight the Khawaarij purely through their determination to end injustices. This, in my opinion, is greatly attributed to the role that the media has played. Conversely, certain media organizations have faced challenges as they engage in promoting distinct agendas, which may unintentionally support the Khawaarij by enhancing their propaganda efforts. This situation underscores the importance of cohesive messaging. It is posited that this issue can be mitigated by harmonizing the narrative, irrespective of whether the channels are positive or negative.

The Ministry of Defense claims the goal of defeating the Khawaarij is a collective responsibility not only for the current government but also for the future leadership and the generations to come. The efforts to defeat the Khawaarij from Somalia provide gains for the whole country, not just serving the current government or an individual.

There are instances when the messages from the people carry more weight than those spread by the television or media outlets. Therefore, putting all the stories against the Khawaarij can go a long way in contributing to state security and fast-tracking the achievement of stability. This project is not limited to the current government led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre, from which we are members but extends to all Somali people and institutions. So finally, I ask everyone to rally around this message and join together in pursuit of this shared objective.