Somali President Announces Amnesty for Al‑Shabaab Members, Urges Peaceful Return to Society

Somali President Announces Amnesty for Al‑Shabaab Members, Urges Peaceful Return to Society
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Somalia’s president has issued a presidential amnesty for members of the militant group Al‑Shabaab, urging fighters — particularly women and others not directly involved in attacks — to surrender and reintegrate peacefully into Somali society.

In statements reported in February 2026, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud described the amnesty initiative as part of a broader strategy to reduce the group’s operational strength and promote national reconciliation. He called on fighters who have been “misled by extremist ideologies” to abandon violence and take up peaceful civilian life, adding that surrendering combatants will be treated in accordance with the law but afforded opportunities to rebuild their lives.

The move follows years of intensified operations by the Somali National Army and allied forces, which have recaptured large swathes of territory previously held by Al‑Shabaab. Government officials say the amnesty aims to address declining morale within the group amid ongoing military pressure and financial hardships facing militants.

Security analysts note that offering incentives for defection is intended to weaken Al‑Shabaab from within, while also encouraging community healing and reducing cycles of violence across Somalia.