KISMAYO, Somalia — The regional government of Jubbaland has intensified its ongoing dispute with Somalia’s central authority, accusing President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of directly interfering with security operations in the Gedo region.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, Jubbaland officials stated that the federal government is not only disrupting peace but is actively deploying its forces to destabilize the area.
Jubbaland’s administration claims that these actions are part of a broader strategy by the federal government to exert control over semi-autonomous regions. The press release detailed incidents where federal troops allegedly engaged in conflicts with local security forces, creating chaos and fear among the populace.
“The federal government’s actions in Gedo are not only unconstitutional but also endanger the lives of our citizens,” said Jubbaland’s Information Minister, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitivity of the issue. “We demand an immediate cessation of these aggressive maneuvers.”
This accusation comes at a time when Somalia is grappling with multiple internal and external challenges, including the persistent threat from the al-Shabab militant group. The Gedo region, bordering Kenya and Ethiopia, is strategically significant and has been a focal point of contention due to its porous borders and the presence of various armed groups.
President Mohamud’s administration has yet to respond officially to these allegations. However, previous statements from the federal government have emphasized its commitment to national unity and security, often framing its military actions as necessary for combating terrorism.
The tension between Jubbaland and the federal government is not new. It has historically revolved around issues of autonomy, resource distribution, and security control. The latest accusations could further complicate peace efforts and the fight against al-Shabab, potentially leading to more localized conflicts which might be exploited by insurgents.
Local residents in Gedo expressed mixed feelings. Some support Jubbaland’s stance, seeing it as a defense of regional autonomy, while others are concerned about the potential for increased violence. “We just want peace,” said Ahmed Yusuf, a shopkeeper in Dolow, one of Gedo’s main towns. “This back-and-forth between our leaders only brings suffering.”
International observers are closely watching the situation, with fears that any escalation could destabilize not only Somalia but the broader Horn of Africa region. Diplomatic efforts from neighboring countries and international bodies like the African Union and the United Nations might be needed to mediate and de-escalate the situation.
This latest chapter in the saga between Mogadishu and Jubbaland underscores the fragile nature of Somalia’s federal structure and the delicate balance required to maintain national cohesion while respecting regional autonomies.
