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The Jubbaland regional administration has accused Somalia’s federal government of fueling conflict in the Gedo region for political gain and dragging the country into a broader international dispute.
In a statement issued by Jubbaland’s Ministry of Internal Security, officials claimed that the ongoing military offensive in Gedo is not just a domestic issue, but part of a wider geopolitical agenda linked to the ongoing Nile River dispute between Ethiopia and Egypt. Jubbaland said President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud is using the Somali National Army (SNA) to divide and weaken the federal structure by turning Gedo into a battleground.
“Jubbaland believes this conflict is being used to serve external interests, especially the tensions between Ethiopia and Egypt over the Nile. Somalia should not be pulled into a conflict that isn’t ours,” the statement read.
Political experts have raised concerns about the possible involvement of foreign troops in Somalia. Egypt is expected to send troops to join the African Union Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) soon, while Ethiopian forces are already operating in parts of the country. Analysts warn that unless Somalia’s federal government establishes a clear strategy, the rivalry between Ethiopia and Egypt could spill over and destabilize the region further.
Jubbaland also criticized the federal government for deploying Abdirashid Janan, a former Jubbaland security chief now working with the federal forces, to lead operations in Gedo. According to Jubbaland, this move is intended to provoke more conflict and suppress local resistance.
In the border town of Beled Hawo, tensions remain high after reports emerged that Ethiopian military officers instructed Somali federal troops under Janan’s command to vacate the area. This sparked public anger, with hundreds of residents protesting what they see as foreign interference in Somali affairs.
“We don’t want outsiders telling us how to protect our town. The national army is here for our safety, and we won’t allow foreign powers to make decisions for us,” said one protester who wished to remain anonymous.
These protests have highlighted deepening frustration among local communities over the handling of the situation in Gedo. Many residents believe the conflict is being driven more by politics than the needs of the people.
Relations between the Somali federal government in Mogadishu and the Jubbaland administration based in Kismayo have grown increasingly tense. Following clashes in Beled Hawo, federal troops took control of the town from Jubbaland forces. The federal government has since suspended services in some areas of Gedo, blaming Jubbaland for the unrest.
Jubbaland denies these claims and insists it is working to protect the interests of local communities. The administration has called on the international community to step in and pressure the Somali government to de-escalate the conflict and respect the federal system.
“The people of Gedo should not be the victims of political games or foreign disputes,” Jubbaland said. “We urge all sides to prioritize peace and protect Somalia’s unity and sovereignty.”
As the situation continues to unfold, both local and international observers are watching closely, hoping that dialogue will replace violence and that Somalia will avoid being drawn further into external conflicts.