Thursday August 7, 2025
Mogadishu HOL) — Somalia’s federal government has accused individuals connected to Jubbaland President Ahmed Mohamed Islam Madobe of orchestrating unrest in the Gedo region and warned that they will face legal consequences for inciting instability.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the Ministry of Internal Security said the individuals were holding clandestine meetings and spreading false information in an effort to provoke conflict. Among them is Mahmoud Sayid Aden, a former official alleged to have a history of inciting insecurity in Gedo and now suspected of renewed involvement in destabilizing activities.
“The Federal Government of Somalia is aware of ongoing unrest instigated by individuals acting on the orders of Ahmed Madobe,” the ministry said. “These individuals are actively involved in meetings aimed at stirring conflict in Gedo and are spreading misleading narratives to conceal their criminal roles.”
The ministry stressed that the Somali National Army remains fully deployed in Gedo and has maintained a continuous presence in the region for over 15 years, adding that government troops are conducting security operations alongside residents to counter threats from armed groups and extremist elements.
“National forces operating in coordination with the people of Gedo are fulfilling their constitutional duty to maintain peace, ensure regional stability, and combat terrorism,” the statement read.
The statement comes as the Gedo region has emerged once again as a battleground in Somalia’s turbulent experiment with federalism, particularly in Beled-Hawo, where federal forces led by Abdirashid Janan, a former Jubbaland security minister who defected to the federal government, seized control from Jubbaland-aligned troops.
While federal forces claim to be restoring order, Jubbaland leaders say the moves undermine regional autonomy. Ethiopia, which shares a sensitive border with Gedo, has called for the withdrawal of federal troops, warning that their presence could destabilize the frontier.
The government also issued a warning to political actors and armed factions engaged in stirring tensions, stressing that their actions are being monitored and will be met with accountability.
“The government warns individuals and factions attempting to provoke violence that their actions are being monitored and they will be held accountable,” the ministry said. “Legal action will be taken against anyone responsible for such acts.”
Officials concluded the statement by commending the people and traditional leaders of Gedo for their cooperation and support in upholding national unity.
“The government thanks the residents and administration of Gedo for their unity, patriotism, and commitment to peace,” the ministry said. “The federal government remains firmly on the side of the people.”