Thursday December 12, 2024
Mogadishu (HOL) – Former Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo has expressed deep concern over the recent clashes between federal government forces and Jubbaland troops in Raskamboni, Lower Jubba region.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Farmaajo lamented the infighting among Somali forces, warning of its detrimental impact on the country's fragile state-building process.
"The fighting in Raskamboni between Somali forces—who share a common enemy in terrorists harming our people—reflects the grave challenges facing the nation and undermines years of efforts to rebuild the Somali armed forces," Farmaajo stated.
Farmaajo criticized what he described as poor leadership and uncoordinated military strategies, which he said have weakened the Somali National Army (SNA). He further warned that suspending constitutional processes and making unilateral decisions could exacerbate divisions and lead to civil strife.
"I urge government leaders to adhere to the rule of law and avoid premature decisions that undermine the unity and solidarity of our people," Farmaajo added.
The clash in the strategically significant Raskamboni area comes amidst growing tensions between Mogadishu and semi-autonomous regions like Jubbaland. Local leaders in Lower Jubba have historically resisted centralized authority, further straining Somalia's fragile federal system.
The violence also coincides with the looming expiration of the African Union peacekeeping force's mandate, raising concerns over Somalia's security landscape shortly.
Somalia's Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur accused Jubbaland forces of instigating the conflict, stating that federal troops acted in self-defense.