General Mohamed Said Hersi Morgan, a former Somali defense minister and key figure in Siad Barre’s regime, has died in Nairobi.
Morgan served as defense minister and was Barre’s son-in-law. He commanded the 26th division which was accused of abuses during battles in the northwest region.
He gained notoriety for leading government forces against SNM rebels, whose resistance eventually helped lead to the collapse of Barre’s military dictatorship in 1991.
Morgan then became a faction leader and controlled parts of southern Somalia during years of civil war. He aligned with other warlords and militia leaders.
Earlier this year, Morgan appeared publicly again, reportedly alongside Puntland forces fighting ISIS militants in the Cal Miskaad mountains, drawing media attention.
Former President Farmaajo offered condolences, calling Morgan a “key historical figure” in Somalia’s military and political history, despite his controversial legacy.
Other political leaders and former military officials have also expressed sympathy to Morgan’s family following confirmation of his death on Wednesday in Nairobi, Kenya.
Morgan’s death marks the end of a chapter for one of Somalia’s most controversial and influential military figures.
