Somalia's info minister resigns over 'differences' with federal govt

Somalia’s Information Minister on May 1 resigned his position in government citing differences with the federal government under President Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed Farmaajo.

Harun Maruf, journalist with the Voice of America, VOA Somali Service, said Dahir Mohamoud Gelle confirmed his resignation to the VOA in an exclusive interview.

Gelle was appointed by Prime Minister Ali Hassan Khaire 11 months ago. In Somalia the full portfolio is of Information, Culture and Tourism.

The premier’s office has said it has received and accepted the resignation of Gelle. PM Khaire was appointed by Farmaajo who won elections in early 2017.

BREAKING: Somalia Information Minister Dahir Mohamud Gelle has resigned citing “differences of opinions” with federal government leaders – Minister tells voasomali in an exclusive interview. pic.twitter.com/q6OGeGBmIc

— Harun Maruf (HarunMaruf) May 1, 2019

The resigned minister has been quickly replaced by with Minister of Commerce Mohamed Abdi Hayir Maareeye who held the post in previous government. Maareeye is replaced by Abdullahi Ali Hassan as Minister of Commerce.

The Ministry of Information informs the public about government policy plans and implementation and supports improvements to knowledge and education of the public.