Allegations of Ethiopian Arms Supply to Somalia’s Jubaland Escalate Tensions
The Somali government has accused Ethiopia of supplying weapons and troops to Jubaland amidst ongoing tensions between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Jubaland leader Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe. This marks the fourth set of allegations within a year, with reports claiming Ethiopian aircraft delivered arms to Kismayo. Somalia maintains that it will defend against Ethiopian encroachment, as accusations of Palestine’s support for various regional authorities continue to mount.
The Somali government has once again accused Ethiopia of interference in its internal affairs, claiming that Addis Ababa has sent weapons and troops to Jubaland state, located in southern Somalia. This allegation marks the fourth instance within a year that Somalia has raised concerns about Ethiopia’s involvement in its domestic political matters. Tensions have increased between Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Jubaland leader Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe, particularly following Madobe’s recent re-election, which the federal government has declared unconstitutional.
Reports indicate that Ethiopian aircraft delivered arms to Kismayo, Jubaland’s capital, which could further destabilize the region. The Deputy Information Minister, Abdirahman Al-Adala, noted that one plane also transported the Deputy President of Jubaland, Mohamud Sayid Aden, to Addis Ababa. Al-Adala stated that Somalia will defend itself against Ethiopian incursions as the government alleges that Ethiopia is training Somali militias and seeks enhanced access to the Red Sea through Somaliland, an adjacent region.
This situation follows prior allegations made by Somalia regarding Ethiopia’s support for various regional authorities within its borders. In July, Somali authorities claimed their security forces intercepted two truckloads of weapons sourced from Ethiopia. Additional accusations arose in September, asserting that arms were shipped by Ethiopia to Puntland. Despite these significant claims, Ethiopia has consistently denied all allegations, though they have remained silent on the latest accusations.
Ethiopia and Somalia have a complex relationship, characterized by historical tensions and territorial disputes. This ongoing strife has been exacerbated by the internal political dynamics within Somalia, particularly as various leaders pursue differing agendas. The election of Jubaland’s president, along with the Somali federal government’s response, has created a volatile environment in which allegations of foreign interference are increasingly common. The accusation that Ethiopia is supplying arms to regional states reflects broader regional conflicts and the struggle for power among Somali factions. Furthermore, Ethiopia’s interest in securing access to the Red Sea through Somaliland has underscored the motivations behind its purported meddling.
The escalating tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, highlighted by the recent accusations of weapon supplies and military support to Jubaland, underscore the fragile political landscape in the Horn of Africa. As both nations grapple with internal and external pressures, it remains crucial for international partners to engage and mediate to prevent further conflict. Somalia’s resolve to protect its sovereignty continues to clash with Ethiopia’s alleged designs, further complicating an already intricate situation. Ongoing scrutiny and diplomatic efforts will be vital in addressing these contentious relationships and fostering stability in the region.
Original Source: www.garoweonline.com
