By Clashes erupted on Wednesday between forces from Somalia’s federal government and the Jubbaland State, raising alarms about the impact of internal rivalries on the ongoing battle against Shabaab. The violence in this strategically important region follows a contested election in Jubbaland, conducted despite opposition from the federal authorities in Mogadishu.
Somali Defence Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur stated that the Jubbaland forces initiated the clashes. In a press statement, he remarked, “Early this morning, Jubbaland forces attacked the Somali federal military troops that were deployed in Lower Jubba to take bases withdrawn from by ATMIS,” referring to the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with Major Abdirahman Osman, a Jubbaland soldier, confirming to Reuters that at least ten people have been killed in the fighting. This escalation comes at a critical time, just weeks before the expiration of the African Union peacekeeping force’s mandate, heightening concerns about the potential vacuum in security that may follow.
The ongoing violence underscores the precarious situation in Somalia, where internal divisions threaten to undermine efforts to combat al Shabaab and stabilize the region. As both sides brace for further confrontations, the international community is watching closely, hoping for a resolution that can refocus efforts on countering the persistent threat posed by militant groups.
Leadership Magazine
Mogadishu Office,
