Ahmed Abdi Kariye “Qoorqoor” became president of Galmudug in February 2020 after a contested election, raising cautious hopes for reconciliation and stability. Those hopes quickly faded. Qoorqoor’s administration clashed with the Sufi militia Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama (ASWJ), a key force against Al-Shabaab, dissolving it and forcing its leaders into exile. This left communities vulnerable, and Al-Shabaab seized the opportunity to expand across Galmudug, cutting key roads, extorting airlines, and encroaching on Dhusamareeb. Poorly planned military campaigns failed to halt the militants, as government forces lacked leadership, supplies, and strategy.