Friday October 31, 2025
Mogadishu (HOL) — Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has apologized to the nation’s security forces for “inappropriate remarks” made by government officials, while commending the officers for maintaining peace and order across Mogadishu.
Speaking Friday in the capital, Barre said the security situation in Mogadishu is stronger than it has been in years, crediting the discipline and dedication of security personnel for stabilizing all 20 districts of the city.
“I extend my appreciation to the men and women protecting our citizens and apologize for the unwarranted comments made by certain officials,” Barre said. “These officers have ensured safety across Mogadishu, and tonight the people can feel peace. They deserve gratitude, not criticism.”
Barre cited an example in which a returning cabinet minister was stopped and questioned about his vehicle after a 10-day trip abroad, describing it as evidence of “the vigilance and professionalism” of the city’s security forces.
The prime minister’s remarks came as Djibouti marked the 25th anniversary of the 2000 Arta Conference, a landmark event that laid the foundation for Somalia’s first transitional government after nearly a decade of conflict.
Barre praised Djiboutian President Ismail Omar Guelleh for his government’s continued support of Somalia’s state-building process, calling Djibouti’s contribution “historic and indispensable.”
“Djibouti brought together people who had once faced each other on the battlefield, those who could not even meet, and hosted over 2,000 delegates for months of talks. What came out of that process marked the beginning of Somalia’s political rebirth,” Barre said.
Djibouti hosted commemorations this week in the coastal town of Arta, where Somali and Djiboutian leaders reflected on the conference’s legacy and its role in rebuilding Somalia’s state institutions.