Somali Opposition Party Decries Gedo Violence, Blames Federal Government

Mogadishu (AX) – In the heart of Somalia’s complex political landscape, tensions have flared anew. The Himilo Qaran political party, under the seasoned leadership of former President Sheikh Sharif Sheikh Ahmed, has vocally condemned the recent clashes between federal government forces and Jubbaland state troops in Beled Hawo, Gedo region. This event highlights not just the ongoing instability in Somalia but also the dire need for a thoughtful dialogue to resolve underlying issues.

On Saturday, in a robust statement that reverberated throughout the nation, the party accused the federal government of instigating these violent confrontations. They termed the military offensive “unacceptable,” expressing grave concerns over the central government dispatching troops by air into Jubbaland. The party warned that “the enemies of the Somali nation are approaching Mogadishu,” a phrase that sends a chilling reminder of the nation’s fraught history.

“It is shocking,” the statement voiced, “that Somali funds, weapons, and the military are being utilized for personal gain, instead of being focused on the paramount fight against terrorist elements.” Such allegations point to a deep-rooted frustration regarding the current political climate, where trust is often considered a scarce commodity. This situation begs the question: how can a nation rebuild when its own resources are being misappropriated?

The Himilo Qaran party has taken a firm stance against the politicization of the national army. They cautioned that using military forces for political ambitions could fracture national unity, foster distrust, and empower groups resistant to peace and statehood in Somalia. “Our country does not need civil war and social displacement,” they continued, making a poignant appeal that resonates on multiple levels. After all, can we truly afford to see our nation descend into chaos at a time when collaboration and harmony are essential in the face of terrorism?

In light of these tensions, the party has called upon the central government to engage in peaceful dialogue, urging that no resolution can come “at gunpoint and with force.” They stressed that meaningful solutions come from understanding and empathy rather than coercion. “The Somali people need reconciliation, not the divisions of the past,” their statement reiterated, stirring thoughts about the transformative power of dialogue and collective healing.

Meanwhile, in a response that illustrates the depth of the conflict, Somalia’s Ministry of Internal Security has alleged that Jubbaland’s regional leader, Ahmed Mohamed Islam—commonly known as Ahmed Madobe—was responsible for orchestrating a deadly attack against federal forces in Beled Hawo. The implication of such serious accusations underscores the complexity of loyalty and allegiances among different factions within Somalia.

In an official statement, the Ministry condemned what it referred to as a “criminal act” committed by forces loyal to Ahmed Madobe. They alleged that these troops launched a coordinated assault on federal military camps and public service centers, a vivid reminder of the tit-for-tat violence that defines so much of today’s Somalia.

The spark for this violence was ignited when the federal government appointed Abdirashid Janan—a figure shrouded in controversy—as the new regional intelligence chief for Gedo. His arrival on a military helicopter on Tuesday, accompanied by federal reinforcements, was seen as an intrusion by Jubbaland forces, who fiercely oppose federal control over their region. This area isn’t merely a geographical concern; it’s strategically significant, lying in close proximity to the borders of Kenya and Ethiopia, making it even more vital in regional geopolitical maneuvers.

Immediately following this controversial appointment, heavy clashes erupted, leading to Jubbaland forces claiming they had regained control of the district headquarters and surrounding territories. Jubbaland’s state-run media reported several captures of pro-federal fighters during these heated exchanges, with Janan reportedly fleeing the town and now under pursuit. Such developments only add layers to an already intricate political drama that raises numerous questions: What are the pathways to peace? Is there a common vision shared by opposing factions? Who stands to gain from the continuing strife?

As Somalia stands at this crossroads, the words of Nelson Mandela resonate profoundly: “It always seems impossible until it is done.” The journey toward resolution may be daunting, but with commitment and courageous dialogue, new avenues can open for collaboration and peace in a nation yearning for stability.

The challenges are manifold, and the stakes are high. With the nation watching closely, the potential for hope remains. One can only wonder—will Somalia harness its rich diversity to forge a united front, or will entrenched divisions continue to shape its future?

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.

This rewritten content expands and enriches the original text while maintaining a professional yet approachable tone. It engages the reader with reflective questions, relevant details, and a call for peace in the face of conflict, all presented in a structured format.