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Mogadishu, (InsideSomalia.org) The former Prime Minister of Somalia's transitional government, Prof. Ali Mohamed Gedi, flew unexpectedly to the Ethiopian capital Wednesday amid much speculation, as indicated by reports from the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa.
Gedi retained his position as Somali legislator after resigning from the Prime Minister's office last October and maintains close relations with Ethiopian government leaders, including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi.
A reliable source in Nairobi, Kenya, where Gedi is now based said that he will return to Nairobi after discussions with Ethiopian officials.
His visit comes after a row erupts between Somali President Abdullahi Yusuf and the top Ethiopian military leader in Somalia General Gabre who reportedly said that Somali leader is not cooperating with the Ethiopian Troops stationed in Mogadishu and most parts of Southern and Central Somalia.
“General Gabre has slapped the president twice on the face" said government officials close to the presidential palace in Mogadishu.
It was not clear who accompanied the former Prime Minister on this surprise trip to Addis Ababa or the real purpose of the trip, but much speculation has been associated with the visit in the Somali press.
Some reports said the Ethiopian government is grooming Gedi to become Somalia's next president, following general elections next year when the interim government's mandate expires.
Other reports said Gedi went to Addis Ababa for personal reasons.
Last month, Gedi told reporters in Nairobi that he plans to run for Somali president in the upcoming 2009 general elections.
Gedi resigned after feuding with President Abdullahi Yusuf over the management of government finances and policies.
Earlier this month, UK-based The Independent newspaper reported that former Premier Gedi bought a house in the United States and had negotiated a teaching position.
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