Thursday 5,Dec2024 {HMC} Jubaland’s leadership has warned that the Federal Government’s deployment of troops to Ras Kambooni risks igniting fresh conflict in the already volatile region. Speaking at a press conference in Kismayo, First Vice President Mahamud Sayid Aden called for the immediate withdrawal of the forces and emphasized the need for dialogue to avert a potential crisis.
Aden accused the Federal Government of acting with political motives to facilitate a security transition from the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS). “ATMIS forces have never operated in Ras Kambooni,” he said, dismissing the government’s justification as misleading.
The Vice President detailed a litany of issues tied to federal troop deployments in Jubaland, including accusations of looting, civilian harm, and a lack of discipline among soldiers. He revealed that some troops had already faced trial in Jubaland’s military courts for misconduct.
Aden further alleged that the Federal Government has long undermined Jubaland’s security efforts by restricting access to critical military supplies. He described the situation as part of a broader pattern of interference, adding that Jubaland had been forced to rely on its own resources to maintain stability in the region.
Aden said the continued presence of federal forces in Ras Kambooni could lead to direct clashes between Somali National Army troops and Jubaland security forces. “Such a confrontation would only deepen divisions and push the country toward civil conflict,” he cautioned. He reiterated that Jubaland’s people are prepared to defend their administration against any threat.
Jubaland’s Vice President Mahmud reaffirmed the state’s commitment to supporting constitutional reform and preparing for one-person, one-vote elections nationwide. He called for a transparent and inclusive process that engages civil society organizations to ensure broad participation in shaping Somalia’s democratic framework.
