SUMMARY

The Forces of Abdirizak Bihi was an armed group closely connected to SNF (Somali National Front) which was in itself a member of SSA (Somali Salvation Army). USC/SSA (United Somali Congress/Somali Salvation Army) was a prominent militia and engaged in an armed conflict with USC/SNA (United Somali Congress/Somali National Alliance) and its allies, throughout most of the 1990s.

The leader, Abdirizak Bihi, like most members of SNF was born into the Marehan clan, one of the major Darud sub-clans and a part of the Sade confederation of clans. The Marehan clan is rather scattered and reside in Lower Jubaland, Gedo and Middle Jubaland in the south and south-west of Somalia. In addition, there are clan-members in Mudug region in central Somalia and in the Ethiopian Ogaden province. The clan has been divided between one Islamist and one secular group. During the rule of former president Siad Barre (himself member of the Marehan clan), the clan managed to build up a strong military as well as political position. However, rifts appeared when the clan did not reach a consensus regarding Barre’s successor and multiple armed groups with a basis in the Darod clan emerged. In the context of rivalry, the Majerteen clan has traditionally been the main rival to the Marehan clan.

Colonel Abdirizak Bihi became the leader of SNF in 1998, a leadership he combined with the leadership of the Forces of Abdirizak Bihi and. SNF is not related to the conflict between the Forces of Abdirizak Bihi and the forces of Ahmed Sheikh Buraleh.

The Forces of Abdirizak Bihi have been involved in the non-state category of UCDP organised violence.