Thursday , June 18, 2026 (Baidoa Online) -The Federal Government of Somalia, through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, has dismissed the Chairman of the Somali National Youth Council, Mohamed Ali Siad, widely known as “Champion.”
According to multiple sources, the primary reason behind his removal was his outspoken criticism of corruption and governance issues. Sources claim that some government officials were dissatisfied with his public remarks and viewed his comments as increasingly critical of the administration.
Sources further allege that government officials were concerned about Champion’s perceived closeness to certain opposition figures, a factor believed to have intensified tensions between him and senior government leaders.
Mohamed Ali Siad has earned widespread recognition over the past 15 years for supporting vulnerable communities through charitable and social initiatives, many of which were provided free of charge. His dismissal has therefore triggered strong reactions from supporters and members of the public.
The decision has already had immediate repercussions. A member of the Somali National Youth Council announced his resignation in protest, expressing dissatisfaction with the manner in which the former chairman was treated.
Minister of Youth and Sports Mohamed Abdulkadir Ali formally removed Champion from office and appointed Abdikafi Mahmoud Makaraan as his replacement.
The move follows a dispute that had reportedly been developing for months between the minister and Champion. The disagreement became more visible on June 10, 2026, when Champion was excluded from the official reception of Judge Omar Arte at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu.
Although he was not part of the organizing committee for the event, Champion attended on his own initiative, drawing significant public attention and sparking widespread discussion about his role and relationship with government officials.
Sources indicate that tensions between the minister and Champion intensified in recent months, with disagreements reportedly centered on governance issues and Champion’s public statements. However, the government has not officially confirmed these claims or provided a detailed explanation for his dismissal.
Abdikafi Mahmoud Makaraan, who previously served as Chairman of the Banadir Regional Youth Council, has now been appointed as the new Chairman of the Somali National Youth Council.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports stated that the appointment is part of broader efforts to strengthen youth empowerment, participation, and development within Somalia’s state-building process.
supporters of Champion have continued to criticize the decision, describing it as unfair and arguing that it overlooks his long-standing contributions to Somali society. The resignation of a National Youth Council member in the wake of the dismissal has further highlighted the controversy surrounding the move.
