On Wednesday, Al-Shabaab opted to replace its long-term Shadow Governor of the Middle Shabelle region.
Reports from the Al-Qaeda linked group indicate that Yusuf Isse Kaba-Kutukade would no longer act as the Middle Shabelle’s shadow governor.
Instead, Abbaas Abu Muhammad would take his place.
Two Al-Shabaab defectors have however stated that Abbaas Abu Muhammad is not the new shadow governor’s real name.
According to them, Abu Muhammad is Khalif Adalle’s nom de guerre.
Adalle is not only a veteran jihadist but also one of Al-Shabaab’s most important financiers, who also served as a Governor of Gedo region.
Lately, the militia group has been facing increased attacks from Somali National Army (SNA), US African Command (AFRICOM), and African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) forces.