Islow Ducaale: How Somalia's ex-security minister became the quiet power behind new political moves

A new political current is rippling through Somalia’s landscape following the unification of several high-profile politicians under one banner, in a coalition anchored by former powerful Minister of Internal Security, Mohamed Abukar Islow Ducaale.

The move, which has redefined political alignments in Mogadishu and beyond, has injected fresh momentum into the country’s evolving democratic space ahead of the 2026 elections.

For years, Islow has been one of Somalia’s most strategically minded leaders, a man known less for noise and more for influence. During his tenure in the security docket under ex-President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo, he not only steered key reforms but also served as a political mentor and coalition-builder.

His ability to navigate Somalia’s complex clan-based politics while maintaining a broad network of trust has earned him respect across political divides.

Today, Islow stands as a frontrunner in the race for the presidency of Hirshabelle State, but his ambitions seem broader than a single regional seat.

His residence in Mogadishu has quietly become a hub of political consultation, a modern-day “gathering tree” where seasoned power brokers and emerging leaders alike converge.

From this base, he has overseen the birth of Heybad Qaran, a political party that now unites key national figures, including former intelligence chief Fahad Yasin, ex-Galmudug president Abdikarim Guled, former Mogadishu Mayor Thabit Abdi, and Puntland’s former presidential candidate Guled Salah.

This coalition recently endorsed former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdoon ‘Saacid’ as its presidential candidate for 2026, signalling a strategic recalibration of power within Somalia’s political elite.

Although Islow may not be the face on the ballot, few doubt his role as the movement’s architect the steady hand shaping its vision and discipline.

In a political environment often defined by fragmentation and short-term deals, Islow Ducaale represents something rarer — a strategist playing the long game. His quiet consolidation of influence may yet prove to be the most consequential political story emerging from Somalia as it edges toward 2026.