Abdikarim Shekh Muuse, widely known as Qalbi-Dhagax, has today been elected to the highest leadership position within the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF). The decision was made during a key meeting held in Jigjiga, the capital of Ethiopia’s Somali Regional State, where ONLF members convened.
The party’s Central Council voted to appoint Qalbi-Dhagax as their new leader, replacing former chairman Abdirahman Shekh Mahdi. Mahdi was removed following serious allegations leveled against him, including violations of the party’s internal rules and interference in decision-making processes. The official ONLF statement also accused him of endangering the safety of party members.
Prior to this, Qalbi-Dhagax had served as the deputy chairman and will now lead the ONLF until the next general convention.
Despite the leadership shake-up, the ONLF reaffirmed its commitment to the 2018 peace agreement, calling it the cornerstone of stability in the region, particularly within the Somali Regional State.
Qalbi-Dhagax is a prominent figure in Somali politics, best known for his deep-rooted involvement in the ONLF struggle. His legacy includes a controversial handover to Ethiopian authorities by the former Somali government led by President Farmaajo — a move that sparked national outcry. He later regained his freedom following political reforms in Ethiopia.
This latest leadership change comes at a time of escalating tensions between ONLF and Somali Regional State President Mustafe Cagjar’s administration. The ONLF has accused Cagjar of inaction and incompetence, charges he has vehemently denied, dismissing the group as intolerant and confrontational.
