to former leader Ahmed Abdi Godane, who was killed in a US air strike.
The group announced the move in an online statement, vowing to take
revenge for Godane's death.
Somalia's authorities earlier put the country on alert for possible
retaliatory attacks by al-Shabab.
The alert came as the US confirmed the death of Godane in air strikes
south of Mogadishu on Monday night.
Little is known about Ahmad Umar, who is also known as Abu Ubaidah.
Abu Mohammed, one of al-Shabab's commanders, said the decision to
appoint him was unanimous.
In a statement, al-Shabab also warned: "Avenging the death of our
scholars and leaders is a binding obligation on our shoulders that we
will never relinquish nor forget no matter how long it takes."
"By the permission of Allah, you will surely taste the bitter
consequences of your actions."
The announcement of the new leader came just minutes after al-Shabab
themselves confirmed the death of Godane.
Earlier on Saturday, Somali National Security Minister Kalif Ahmed
Ereg said old reporters: "Security agencies have obtained information
indicating that al-Shabab is now planning to carry out desperate
attacks against medical facilities, education centres and other
government facilities."
Mr. Ereg "congratulated the Somali people" on Godane's death, adding:
"The security forces are ready to counter their attacks and we call on
people to help the security forces in standing against violent acts."
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