Somalia: Concerns Grow Over Alleged FGS Troop Buildup Near Kenyan…

Jubaland MPs accuse the Somali federal government of troop buildup near Kenya, warning of potential clashes after recent military defeats. Allegations suggest an intention to destabilize Jubaland’s leadership. While the federal government has not responded, peace talks are reportedly being sought, amid ongoing tensions over electoral conduct and federalism in Somalia.

In Kismayo, Somalia, members of the federal legislature from Jubaland have called out the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) for allegedly amassing troops near the Kenyan border. This troop buildup may lead to renewed hostilities following the Somali National Army’s recent setbacks in the Raskamboni area. Lawmakers contend that the FGS aims to destabilize Jubaland and undermine President Ahmed Islam Mohamed Madobe’s administration, which has had a strained relationship with the central government.

The legislators suggested that former military personnel stationed in Jubaland are being summoned back to service, raising concerns of heightened tension along the border. They stated, “The federal government is deliberately preparing and financing militias to create insecurity along the border and disrupt peace in both Jubbaland and neighboring Kenya.”

While the FGS has not yet issued a formal response to these accusations, Somalia’s Defence Minister, Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur, has suggested that efforts toward reconciliation with Jubaland leaders are underway. Tensions escalated after President Madobe’s successful indirect re-election in November, which prompted backlash from Mogadishu, which calls for direct elections. The present situation complicates President Hassan Sheikh’s efforts to unify federal states, as both Puntland and Jubaland accuse him of manipulating the constitution to undermine federalism and regional stability.

In light of these developments, Jubaland forces previously engaged in skirmishes have neutralized elite Gorgor troops, with some seeking refuge within Kenyan military installations. Despite Kenya’s attempts to mediate discussions between Kismayo and Mogadishu, no significant resolutions have been reached to date.

The ongoing tensions between the Federal Government of Somalia and the Jubaland regional state stem from longstanding political rivalries and differing views on governance and elections. The federal government, led by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has been pushing for direct universal elections, while Jubaland’s leadership argues that this move could result in unconstitutional extensions of their terms. The situation is exacerbated by military confrontations and allegations of destabilizing strategies that threaten regional security.

The accusations by Jubaland law lawmakers against the Federal Government of Somalia highlight the fragile political landscape in the region, risking further conflict amid calls for reconciliation. The troop buildup near the Kenyan border poses serious implications for both domestic stability and bilateral relations with Kenya, necessitating urgent diplomatic engagements. Enhanced dialogue and adherence to the principles of federalism are crucial for restoring peace and preventing further hostilities within Somalia and along its borders.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com