Somalia: Tensions Flare as FGS Labels Northeastern State’s Ship Seizure “Hijacking”, Rekindling Old Rifts

AXADLE, Somalia – In the intricate tapestry of Somali politics, recent events have stirred familiar tensions. The Somali government’s description of the recent seizure of a vessel by Northeastern State authorities as “hijacking” might just reopen old wounds and escalate conflicts.

For years, a veil of suspicion has cloaked the interactions between Northeastern State’s regional government and the federal authorities in Mogadishu. It took three days for the central administration to address the confiscation of the Sea World vessel, an incident that highlights these enduring suspicions.

Wednesday saw a robust statement from Somalia’s federal government. They denounced what they termed the “hijacking” of a ship that was transporting military equipment and other supplies intended for Mogadishu. This was the first time they acknowledged the vessel’s ownership and mission following investigations by Northeastern State authorities.

The heart of the conflict? A shipment that, according to the government, was lawfully sanctioned. They demanded the prompt and unconditional release of the Sea World vessel, which had been redirected to Bosaso, Northeastern State’s commercial hub.

This vessel was said to be carrying military gear intended for the Turkish-Somali training facility in Mogadishu, all in line with national laws and defense agreements with Turkey. It’s noteworthy that Turkey plays a vital role in training Somalia’s elite Gorgor troops, which raises an important question: How do international partnerships influence regional dynamics in Somalia?

The government’s rhetoric was strong, declaring the detention an act of “piracy” and warning of potential actions against areas seen as piracy strongholds. Yet, Northeastern State released Sea World after investigations showed it was not carrying illicit goods, despite local and media speculation.

Intriguingly, another ship was seized shortly after, found with illegal weapons. Authorities remain tight-lipped as they conduct thorough investigations into the matter.

According to a source quoted by Axadle, while the Sea World incident might not violate the arms embargo, it breaches specific conditions surrounding its lifting. Curiously, the federal government has remained silent on these specific breaches. Is there more beneath the surface of this silence?

There’s a sentiment in Northeastern State and Jubaland that the federal government focuses on “non-issues” amidst severe terrorist threats. Northeastern State Interior Minister Juha voiced a striking opinion, saying: “Northeastern State and Jubaland are fighting terrorism, but President Hassan Sheikh is fighting his people.”

These developments unfold against the backdrop of Northeastern State forces battling ISIS in the Cal-Miskaad mountains, while Jubaland pursues Al-Shabaab across the Middle and Lower Jubba regions. Their efforts are complicated by the ongoing political strife attributed to federal interference. It raises another question: How do internal political dynamics impact the broader security landscape?

Somalia’s story is one of resilience amidst complexity, a narrative that sees old friendships tested and new alliances on trial. How will these recent events shape the future of Somali governance and peacebuilding?

Ultimately, the interactions between Somalia’s federal and regional governments reveal the delicate balance of power, trust, and aspirations. These tensions may soon reveal the strength of Somalia’s political and security fabric—or highlight its vulnerabilities.

Edited By Ali Musa, Axadle Times International–Monitoring.